Wild Wednesday – Flower crab spider
This week's Wild Wednesday introduces a master of disguise, the Flower crab spider, scientific name, Misumena vatia, one West Sussex's fascinating residents, common in wildflower meadows, gardens, and woodland edges.
Easily recognised by its crab-like stance and ability to change colour to match its floral surroundings.
Females, often larger and more vividly coloured than the males, can shift from white to yellow over several days, a clever camouflage trick that helps them ambush unsuspecting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
These spiders do not spin webs to catch prey, instead, they lie in wait on flower heads, their long front legs poised like crab claws, ready to snatch their next meal. It's a strategy that is both sneaky and efficient, and one that makes them a vital part of the local ecosystem - by preying on these insects, they help regulate pest populations naturally, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
The Sussex Wildlife Trust notes that they're particularly widespread across the southern UK, including the Arun district. Keep an eye out in places like Mewsbrook Park, Brookfield Park, or your own garden - especially where buttercups, daisies, or ox-eye flowers bloom.
Did you know?
- females can grow up to 11 millimetres, while males are much smaller at just three to four millimetres
- they don't chase prey - they wait, perfectly still, sometimes for days
- their colour-changing ability is not instant - it can take several days to fully adapt to a new flower colour
So next time you're out enjoying Arun's green spaces, take a closer look at the blooms - you might just spot one of these incredible little hunters blending in with the petals.
Read more here: Flower crab spider | The Wildlife Trusts