Earlier today, we collected some mint leaves from the garden to make a batch of iced tea. Just prior to plunging them into boiling water, we noticed this Goldenrod Crab Spider (Misumena vatia) hiding in the foliage.Goldenrod Crab Spiders live among the stems and leaves of flowering plants. They are particularly fond of goldenrods, milkweeds, and other species that attract an abundance of flying insects. When the plants bloom, the spiders will use their white or yellow coloration to hide among the petals and disks of the flowers. From there, they ambush the visitors that stop by for a sample of nectar or pollen. In an effort to lure prey directly into their clutches, these acrobatic arachnids will even dangle among the clusters of blossoms with their legs spread like petals surrounding their disk-like body. This behavior helps inspire their other common name: Flower Crab Spider. Needless to say, this crab was spared the pot and instead returned to the garden to help keep the plants healthy and ecosystem in balance in our wildflower patch. So we’ll just be having tea, thank you.
