23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Orb Weaver in the Web

The Sooty Orb-Weaver (Salsa fuliginata) occupies the centre of its orb-like web at twilight. Native to parts of Australia, this araneid is primarily nocturnal, constructing large, symmetrical webs to capture flying insects. This individual demonstrates typical sit-and-wait predatory behavior, remaining motionless at the centre to monitor web vibrations via specialized mechanosensory hairs on its legs. Location: Ngunnawal Land, Australia.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 02.2025
Date Uploaded: 10.2025
Photo Location: Carwoola, Australia
Camera: DMC-GX7
Copyright: © Kate Snow