Leaf Curl

Leaf-curling spider in its shelter Photographer - John Broomfield Source - Museum Victoria

The leaf-curling spider is commonly found throughout southern Australia in open woodland and forest habitats as well as urban gardens. It normally uses a leaf in the centre of the web for protection, mainly from birds, but many other objects may be used as a shelter in the web including snail shells and old bus tickets.

Large numbers of this spider may occur in an area; however, unlike the spiny spider, each has its own separate web. Their food consists mainly of flying insects.

Egg sacs are placed inside a folded leaf suspended some distance outside the main web.

Bites from this spider are rare but may cause local reaction, including pain and swelling.