RECENT weather conditions seem to have been just right to encourage the insect population to soar, particularly those of the winged variety. I have noticed a large increase in the number of butterflies recently, as well as less attractive fly species.

The knock on effect of this is that the number of fly predators is on the increase. The number and variety of spiders I have noticed over the last week has been remarkable. Some I haven't identified but others are those I see year in, year out.

One in particular is a member of the orb-web or Argiopdae, the heath spider or Araneaus quadratus. It is most commonly seen on the heathland sites around the district, however, I have also seen it in my garden on previous years, a fairly easy spider to identify by its four cream spots on its abdomen. It is a quite striking spider because of its sheer size and shape. The abdomen is extremely rounded, practically ball-like, up to a centimetre across.

Other members of this group of spiders are the common garden spider, whose large circular webs can be seen draped across garden fences on dewy or frosty mornings. At this time of year it is uncommon to see large specimens as they tend to over winter in the egg stage, and mature during mid to late summer.

I spotted one of the most beautifully marked spiders that I have ever come across last week amongst some nettles. As with many spiders it is only known by its Latin name, Enoplognatha ovata. As a common but small spider it is often overlooked.

Upon close inspection its beauty becomes apparent. Its abdomen is a wonderful vivid yellow/green, with two bright red jagged edged stripes along its length. There are a few very attractive spiders in the UK, unfortunately, most are either particularly small, or the colours that make them so attractive also act as excellent camouflage.

Possibly the most attractive spider is the crab spider. Gaining their name from their unusually long front legs, which they hold outstretched, and their tendency to walk sideways, these small spiders tend to live within flowers waiting for their prey, and often blend in perfectly with their flower of choice. I have seen these pale green, bright yellow, even brilliant white.

The spiders we are possibly most familiar with are those that live in and around our homes.

The zebra spider is one that tends to be seen on the sunny, outer walls of our houses and gardens. It is easily identified by its alternating black and white stripes. It does not rely on a web like the heath and garden spiders; instead it stalks its prey using its large eyes and excellent vision, pouncing from quite an impressive distance away.

Another common garden resident is the woodlouse spider, Dysdera crocata, not surprisingly it is named after its favourite prey item, woodlice. It inhabits similar areas as its prey, damp corners of the house and garden, under sheds and logs and beneath baths and sinks.

Its carapace (head end) is a glossy red, while its abdomen is peanut shaped and grey or white in colour.

Spiders generally are given bad press. While some can be a little creepy, there are no native spiders dangerous to humans, indeed, the vast majority simply help keep our homes, gardens and crops free from unwanted pests.