This is a huge Golden Silk Orbweaver, I want to say at least the size of my hand around 3 inches wide and 6 inches to the tip of my middle finger. So I believe this may be a female.
She picked the best spot for her web, and how they know where and at what height to build their webs is truly amazing. I am hoping to head back there to measure the web.
Her nutrition is a Hercules Beetle.
Looks like some little ones are practicing their web weaving!
Links
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/misc/golden_silk_spider.htm
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/MISC/BEETLES/Dynastes_hercules.htm
Categories: Nature Photography, Spiders
Florida Nature 