I spotted this fascinating creature at the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge.  At first glance I thought it was transporting a fresh catch of food across the web.  But upon closer inspection I realized its body was spiny.  I struggled taking a photo – in fact, I won’t show you the half dozen initial shots I took that were silhouettes of the spider.  My friend Tore suggested some other camera settings that greatly improved my photos.  I am thrilled the photos turned out and I can share this amazing looking spider with you.

If my research is correct, the spider is a Micrathena gracilis.  You can read more about this spider here: http://ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/spined-micrathena

 

Camera:  The one and only:  Rockalita Sunshine!  (Canon 5D Mark IV)
Lens:  My beloved 100 mm macro lens (Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L macro IS)
Date: October 2016
Location: Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge.  This place is free and it’s a wonderful adventure.  If you’re not committed to the great outdoors, there are routes you can drive and to admire the birds.