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HarvestmanOther invertebrate
Phalangium opilio The harvestman is very distinctive with a round, compact body and extremely long legs. Although it 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. These arachnids defend themselves by secreting a foul-smelling fluid. If they are caught, they are able to shed a leg to escape. What does it eat?Small insects, snails and worms. When will I see it?Usually in the autumn. Where will I see it?Throughout the garden. Sometimes in the house. |
Vital statisticsLength: Up to 30 mm across Calendar
Related habitatsFood |
Illustration of harvestman - Chris Shields
Bees on Globe thistle - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2000_1312_009)
Common toad, Conwy - RSPB Images - Ben Hall (rspb-images.com)
Robin sitting on flowerpot in garden - Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2003_4817_002)
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)
Bees on Globe thistle - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2000_1312_009)
Common toad, Conwy - RSPB Images - Ben Hall (rspb-images.com)
Robin sitting on flowerpot in garden - Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com, Ref: 2003_4817_002)
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)