Sosippus floridanus -  Okeechobee County, Florida, USA December 27, 2006
This was about the fifth time the male made contact with the female.
Originally the female was at the base of the container.
Upon introduction, the male began the typical web plucking and legs 1,2/abdomen vibrations. The female responded by crouching then extending leg 1 and plucking her web, indicating she was receptive.
Each time the male approached the female he would tap her, then move away and add silk to her web, much like male Agelenids do during courtship. This behavior may be a form of 'scenting' to keep other males out.
The female moved up each time contact was made. It was not clear to me which one chose the location for copulation.
In Barronopsis, the male uses his chelicerae to pick up the female by it's legs and move her to a favorable location in the retreat.
Images of this individual: tag all
|