One of our customers sent us an email to ask us if she should be
concerned about this spider that she found outside her home in
Murfreesboro, TN. The spider in question is known as argiope
aurantia. It is a colorful spider that goes by a primary common
name of black and yellow agriope. This spider is also known as a
yellow garden argiope, yellow garden orb-weaver, golden garden
spider, golden orb-weaver, and the writing spider. Although it
looks rather threatening, the writing spider doesn't prey on
humans. But if it is provoked, it will bite. The bite feels
similar to a bee sting. Young children, the elderly, and those
with sensitive immune systems should take special care not to
harass this pest. It's best to marvel at these spiders and their
webs, but not touch them. The female does, however, prey on her
mate. After intercourse, the male writing spider has an
irreversible seizure and is dead within 20 minutes. Then,
preparing her afternoon treat, the female spider wraps him in a
silk sack and leaves him on