Lancing Nature | Arachnida

From lightning-fast active hunters to the creators of delicate, silk masterpieces, the arachnids of the Sussex coast are a wonder to observe. This collection captures the diverse range of spider species found right on our doorstep in Lancing, highlighting their astonishing variety of shapes, colours, and lifestyles. Scroll down to discover the hidden world of these remarkable and industrious garden neighbours.

Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider

24.04.2005
Mash Barn Lane

Wikipedia: Pisaura mirabilis

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Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider
7.07.2023

Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider - basking on a log

Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider

Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider
28.03.2026
Garden

Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider (Immature)

01.04.2026 | Garden

Early spring sighting in the lush garden foliage. This specimen is currently in its immature phase; as the season progresses, these spiders will exhibit their unique 'nuptial gift' mating behaviour.

Pisaura mirabilis

Nursery Web Spider

02.05.2026 | Garden

Pisaura mirabilis, also known as the predatory spider, cunning spider or bridal gift spider, belongs to the hunting spider family and the superfamily Lycosoidea. It is widespread throughout Europe. In 2002, it was voted Spider of the Year by the Arachnological Society. Wikipedia.

Salticus scenicus (m)

Zebra Spider - male

26.07.2005
Exterior house wall

Wikipedia: Zebra Spider

Salticus scenicus (f)

Zebra Spider - female

11.04.2004
Portslade, East Sussex

Recorded in nearby Portslade rather than Lancing.

Salticus scenicus

Zebra Spider

21.05.2026
Garden

Very small specimen, Spotted on Camelia leaf

Pardosa spp. (possibly amentata)

Wolf Spider

ID pending confirmation

Wikipedia: Pardosa

Xysticus spp. (possibly cristatus)

Crab Spider

01.05.2005
Lancing Ring

Wikipedia: Xysticus

Xysticus_cristata

Crab Spider

17.05.2026
Garden

A dramatic moment of garden survival plays out on the bright yellow disc of an oxeye daisy. A Common Crab Spider, Xysticus cristatus, perfectly camouflaged against the daisy's central florets , has successfully ambushed a solitary bee. The spider's robust, patterned abdomen and powerful, forward-facing legs are locked in a firm grip around its prey, demonstrating the formidable hunting strategy of this sit-and-wait predator amidst the petals.

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Other families