This...thing is called an Argiope Bruennichi. It is found in Europe.
This is a sun spider.
Hobo Spider.
Purse web spider. Almost beetle-like, isn't it? It belongs to a suborder callled Orthognatha, or primitive spiders.
Lady-bird spider. So named because of it's resembalence to a lady-bird (ladybug).
Spitting spider. So named because it spits a poisonous silken substance over its prey.
Lynx spider. Look at those barbs!
Please note: These pictures are mostly close-ups. These spiders really no where near as big as these photos would make them seem.
Thank God.
Spiders terrify me. I know its irrational, but dear God, I can't stand them. My phobia is rather embarrasing, especially because I strive to understand and appreciate nature in its fullest, including the unpleasant parts. I know that most of them are harmless but...
But I suppose this thread might help me to get over my fears. Perhaps someday I might even...
pick one up. 