The Telltale Red Hourglass Mark of the Black Widow Spider (IMAGE)

Duke University

The Telltale Red Hourglass Mark of the Black Widow Spider

Caption

The black widow spider's telltale red hourglass-shaped mark appears brighter and more contrasting to birds than to insects, finds a new study. The red-and-black color combination sends a "beware!" signal to predators without scaring off their prey.

Credit

Nicholas Brandley

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