September is a fantastic time for spiders! In September, adult spiders are at their largest after feasting all summer. Some females will be gravid with eggs at this time of year. The larger spiders are easier to spot and as the plants start to die back, their webs are far more visible.

Orb Weaver spiders are known for their amazing webs. These are your classic spooky spider webs which radiate out from a central point. There are 10 different species of Orb Weavers in the UK, my favourite is the Four Spot Orb Weaver. The Four Spot is one of our largest spider species, able to predate bumblebees!

Looking for a wildlife activity this month - how about a night-time spider survey? The Walnut Orb Weaver, also known as a Toad Spider, is a great nocturnal species to look out for in your garden! Some spider species have a tapetum lucidum, a reflective layer at the back of the eye causing their eyes to glow white, blue, or green. Take a torch out on a dark night and look out for glowing spider eyes in the undergrowth!