September 28 - October 4, 2022
I Spy... wait, where did you go?
◆ READY FOR ITS CLOSE UP: Jodie Kuhne prepares to capture a peacock spider at Ryan’s Lookout in the Warby-Ovens National Park. PHOTO: Belinda Harrison
By BELINDA HARRISON
THE tiny, yet delightful, peacock spider (Maratus volans) is native to Australia and they are the only spiders that “dance” to attract a female mate. Peacock spiders are part of the jumping spider family, which is the world’s most diverse and abundant spider family, with more than 500 genera and more than 5000 species, (more than 13 per cent of all spiders). Local photographer and peacock spider ‘enthusiast’ Jodie Kuhne, has had these tiny arachnids in the sights of her camera lens for about six years and said they are very common in our area. “The smallest known peacock spider is only 2.5mm while the largest is only 5mm, so trying to find them is the biggest challenge,” Jodie said. “You are looking for something that’s half the size of a grain of rice and can camouflage extremely well so being patient is a must.” Jodie has found numerous different species of Maratus in the North East and around Melbourne and said from the moment she came across her first peacock spider, she was addicted to finding more. “Part of that addictiveness is that every year new species of peacock spiders are being found so there’s always a good chance of finding a new one, which would be pretty amazing,” Jodie said. “There is a species that someone found in the Warby-Ovens National Park last year that I’m yet to find and photograph, but I can’t wait to get out there again this year to see if I can find it myself.” Peacock spiders are most active during spring when they come out to feed and breed, however, some species are active during the summer as well. Maratus Griseus is the most common species and can be found under river stones in residential garden beds or any area that has river stones. It can be found all year round but is more active in the spring while species that live higher in the mountains will come out in spring and summer. Species that live in hotter climates will be out towards the end of spring and into early summer.
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YOUR GARDEN EN
ANIMAL CARE
WINE TALK
YOUR HEALTH
GONE NE FISHING HING
with HELEN
with RSPCA
with ANITA
with SOPHIE
with ROB
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