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Nephila pilipes
Also known as the Large Woodland Spider or "Human Faced" Spider, the Giant Golden Orb Weaver is one of the largest spiders in Hong Kong. With females overall size up to 20 cm, they are among the largest spiders in the world. The males are usually at a much smaller size of 5 to 6 mm. They also build the strongest and largest webs in the world. Other than insects, they are also known to catch and consume bats and birds larger than their size. Despite their bright patterns and huge webs, it is often unnoticed by hikers due to their lack of movements.
They are commonly found along forested hiking trails in Hong Kong.
Giant Golden Orb Weaver is POISONOUS! They have poison glands that produces neurotoxin that is used for immobilizing their prey. The poison is not strong enough to kill a human but definitely enough to cause local pain and swelling for a day or two.
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