The vast aquatic variety seen in the grazing ditches on our reserves is maintained in large part by these spiders, according to Tim Strudwick,
Site manager for RSPB Mid Yare nature reserves. The ladies are very stunning and large, making them a really unique sight to see.
Fen raft spiders are distinguished by the striking white stripe that runs the length of their bodies. They may reach a size comparable to an adult human’s palm.
They vary somewhat from ordinary spiders in that they lay in wait with their front legs resting on a body of water instead of weaving webs to catch their victim.
