These spiders are all over the woods - July 28 2007

IMG_1179, originally uploaded by Camp Naturalist.

Every year at this time these Spined Micrathena spiders (Micrathena gracilis) start making their webs. I love their abdomins.  They look like they’re made of porcelain.

Their webs are in the shape of  a CD, with a hole in the middle that they can get through to the other side.  Three anchor threads are use to secure the web.

Eastern Box Turtle getting some help - July 28 2007

IMG_1206, originally uploaded by Camp Naturalist.

As I am returning from a walk around the peninsula, I see a truck stop a few hundred yards ahead. I get up to that spot and find this male box turtle.  They were stopping to help this species of special concern get across the road.  It’s nice to see that people care enough to help when they can!