Harvestmen are very distinctive with a round, compact body and extremely long legs. They are usually seen in the autumn.
Although the Harvestman looks like a long-legged spider, it isn’t one. It is one of the Opilones, a group of arachnids closely related to spiders. Unlike the spiders, it has no silk glands so is not able to spin a web. It does not have fangs and does not produce venom.
It catches its insect prey by using hooks on the ends of its legs. It eats small insects, snails and worms.
Harvestmen defend themselves by secreting a foul-smelling fluid. If they are caught, they are able to shed a leg to escape.
Tags: RHS Hyde Hall Harvestman Essex Flower Echinacea Opiliones Garden
© All Rights Reserved
I spotted this Harvestman lurking on a leaf waiting to ambush any unsuspecting small creatures who happened to wander his way!
Can anyone help identify the species of this fella? Thanks!
Tags: Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Reserve Harvestman Arachnid May Spring Essex Wildlife Trust Essex Woods Leaf
© All Rights Reserved
Leiobunum rotundum is one of the most common species of Harvestman found in the U. K. Individuals reach maturity from July to November. They are found in thick vegetation, woods, hedges, marshes, walls and fences, and are less common in more open and dry habitats.
The female's body length is 5 - 6 mm and males are 3 - 4 mm long. The longest leg is around 58 mm long. Males have a red/brown body. Females have a lighter abdomen with a dark rectangular spot in the middle.
Tags: Norsey Wood Harvestman Leiobunum rotundum Male Billericay Essex Opilione Bramble Leaf Wood
© All Rights Reserved
Been trying to get a picture of this little chap for a few weeks now. He only comes out at night, and when he's been out I didn't have my camera and when I've had my camera he's not been out!
But tonight....!
(If anyone can help me ID him more acurately that would be great!)
Tags: Daddy Long Legs Spider South Woodham Ferrers Macro Elite Harvestman Essex Insects Elite Bug
© All Rights Reserved
Harvestman on-guard! Looking very possessive!
Tags: Blackberry Harvestman Autumn September 2013 Basildon Essex On-Guard Mine! Phalangodidae Opilione Arachnid Long-legs
© All Rights Reserved