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Photo of the Day 45


Spider Guarding Eggs, Maui, Hawaii, 2001

Photograph by Darlyne Murawski

Found only on the islands of Oahu, Molokai, Maui, and Hawaii, the happy face spider, such as this one guarding its eggs on a leaf in Maui, is known for the unique patterns that decorate its pale abdomen. Scientists believe Theridion grallatormay have developed its distinctive markings to discourage birds from eating it.

(Photo shot on assignment for, but not published in, "Deadly Silk: Spiderwebs," August 2001, National Geographic magazine)

4 comments:

Save Deborah!!! said...

I don't like spiders at all and this photo is totally creeping me out. But it is really a great image and I never knew there was such a spider.

Gross!!!!

Anonymous said...

I don't like spiders at all and this photo is totally creeping me out. But it is really a great image and I never knew there was such a spider.

Gross!!!!

Al said...

is this spider for real?
Not any photoshop job? Wow. . i would like to keep one as Pet.

Black_Mamba said...

I'm a snake lover, now I'm a spider lover as well. Cool shot :)
An A+ for cuteness ;)