Organism ID

Scientific Name: Dysdera Crocata

Common Name: Woodlous Spider

Physical Description: The female size can range from 11-15mm, and the males from 9-10mm. The color of their cephalothorax ranges from dark red to an orangish color. However we found a white dysdera crocata in the garden. They also have a brownish abdomen. One distinct feature of these spiders is their large fangs.

Description of Life Cycle: They live under logs and soil, near warm places. Usually this is near homes because of their food, woodlice.

Predator/Prey information: They prey upon woodlice, and Pillbugs.

Interesting Facts: They have large fangs, and a venomous bite to immobilize their prey. However their venom isn’t hazardous to humans.




Scientific Name: Armadillidium vulgare

Common Name: Pill Bug or Roly Polies

Physical Description: It can reach a length of about 18 millimeters. They have a light shell-like crustaceous exterior shell that is usually a grayish color. Depending on the species and the region, their shell can range from earthly colors to black with red dots (similar to a black widow). They have five abdominal segments and vestigial antennas.

Description of Life Cycle: They normally have a life cycle of 30-41 months.

Predator/Prey information: Ants, spiders, shrews, toads, frogs, newts, lizards, small owls, foxes, centipedes, harvestmen, beetles, and other isopods.

Interesting Facts: They are omnivorous. They feed off of fungus, concrete, live or dead plants and animals.




Scientific Name: Hedera Helix

Common Name: Common Ivy

Physical Description: This ivy is a woody, evergreen climber. It can reach 30m high, but can creep along the ground. They’re hairless, dark green above, pale green beneath, glossy, and leathery. They also grow berries which can be toxic to humans.

Description of Life Cycle: During the early stages of its life, it covers the ground. Over time, they have a different shape, lighter shade of green, and less visible white veins.

Predator/Prey information: It’s not a predator, but can harm plants around it. It’s not preyed upon, but it does suffer from pest and rats.

Interesting Facts: Older vines can be up to 5 inches thick. Also they’re adhesive, so they can stick to walls and trees.