But those all appear to be green or have a greenish tint.

Thanks for pointing that out -- that's something new for me, as well. According to Kaston that "double fringe of hairs on the prolateral surface of the basal half [of the posterior femora]" (he offers an illustration, thank heavens) is a key for distinguishing between Leucauge and Meta menardii -- although IMO the shape of the opisthosoma of these two is sufficiently different to distinguish them apart (not to mention habitat).

-K

I agree with John and Jane. Pattern in spiders is a much more reliable characteristic than color.

That's where I'll put them. Thanks !

Also, in the third "close-up" pic notice the feathery "hairs" on the legs next to the body. What would the purpose of that be ?

of color on the abdomen, that fringe is what pushed us toward Leucauge. We only seem to notice that fringe on images of Leucauge. Scroll through those images and you will see many with the fringe.

Ok, I'll take a look. Also, see Kevin Pfeiffer's comment above.
Thanks!