The golden wheel web spider is one of Costa Rica's most distinctive spiders. With its long legs and golden brown body, it is instantly recognisable, but most impressive is its web. This spider spins huge nets that can be up to a metre and a half in size, in which the silk shows a subtle golden sheen, especially when sunlight shines through. This golden web is not only beautiful to see, but also extremely strong and functional.
The golden web spider plays an important role in the ecosystem by keeping insect populations in balance. You can often see her waiting motionless in the middle of her web, ready to strike at lightning speed as soon as prey gets caught. Although she looks impressive, she is harmless to humans and, above all, a symbol of nature's sophistication and efficiency.
This photo collection captures the beauty and details of the golden wheel web spider: close-ups of its body and legs, images of the golden web in sunlight and moments when prey is caught. It is an ode to the ingenious architecture and silent power of one of Costa Rica's most extraordinary spiders.