Paidiscura pallens

A tiny spider (around 1.5mm), which could be mistaken for a very young spider, rather than an adult. Usually pale (pallens means "pale"), but variable in colour with green and dark forms occurring. Often overlooked due to its small size, but it's strangely shaped, 'sputnik-like' white egg sac is distinctive.

Trees, low bushes and shrubs.

April-September.

The egg sacs can be seen beneath the leaves of Oaks and other trees.

Widespread and common throughout most of Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

6657 British records to Jan 2013