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Cave Orbweaver (Meta menardi)

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description Cave Orbweaver (Meta menardi) Overview

The Cave Orbweaver (*Meta menardi*) is a spider in the family Tetragnathidae natively found across Europe in dark, humid environments. It is one of the largest orb-weaving spiders in Britain and is commonly encountered in caves, mines, and subterranean passages, where it constructs horizontal orb webs near cave entrances. It was formally described by the French zoologist Pierre André Latreille in 1804, reflecting its early recognition in European natural history.

help Cave Orbweaver (Meta menardi) FAQ

Where should someone look for a cave orbweaver?

Meta menardi usually occupies the twilight zones of caves, mines, tunnels, cellars, and other cool, damp structures across Europe. It is not a true deep-cave specialist because it still depends on food entering from the surface.

Is Meta menardi dangerous to people?

It is not considered medically significant and generally avoids biting. A sufficiently provoked spider may deliver an unpleasant nip, so it should be observed without handling.

What are the white hanging balls found near cave orbweavers?

They are often the spider's distinctive teardrop-shaped egg sacs, suspended from cave ceilings or walls by silk. Juveniles later emerge and disperse toward the cave entrance.

How can Meta menardi be distinguished from Meta bourneti?

The two European cave spiders can look very similar, and their geographic ranges overlap in some areas. Reliable separation may require close examination of reproductive structures rather than color or body size alone.

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