Friday the 13th, full moon, and spiders!
by Rose Collison. Photo credits: Patrice Johnson and Rose Collison
Friday the 13th’s full moon is called the micro moon. It will appear 14% smaller and a bit dimmer due to its farther distance from earth. It is called Harvest Moon according to the Old Farmers Almanac because that was when the corn harvests traditionally started. In some other parts of the country it goes by other names, like the Falling Leaves Moon. In Ontario it is the Rutting Moon, and in the Pacific Northwest it’s the Cedar Bark Moon.
Clouds over the moon
Harvest Moon
The yellow garden spider, or writing spider, is common in the United States. The yellow garden spiders are large, females are 1.1 inches in body length which is up to 3 times larger than the males. Most spiders have two claws on each foot, but orb weavers have an additional claw to help them build their complex, circular web.
This striking fellow (or gal) goes by yellow garden spider, zig zag spider, writer spider, hay spider, and corn spider.
The spotted Orb Weaver, usually found around buildings and other manmade structures, is attracted to outdoor lights. The orb part of the web may be nearly 2 feet in diameter.
Spotted Orb weaver, Hentz orb weaver, and barn spider are some of its common names.
Rose Collison
After retiring from Stockbridge Community Schools, Rose Collison joined the board of Stockbridge Community News. She serves as volunteer photographer and manages the Where’s Waldo contest. She and husband Ken have lived in the area for a number of years.