The European Garden Spider, also known as Araneus diadematus, is a common species found throughout Europe. It is easily recognizable by its round body, which can vary in color from yellow to brown, often featuring a distinctive white cross pattern on its back. These spiders typically build large, circular webs in gardens, forests, and fields, where they catch insects for food. Adult European Garden Spiders can grow to about 1 to 2 centimeters in body length, with females being larger than males. They are most active during the late summer and early autumn months. This species plays a vital role in controlling insect populations, making it beneficial for garden ecosystems.