The Wasp Spider (Argiope bruennichi) is a species of orb-web spider distributed throughout central, western and northern Europe, north Africa, and parts of Asia. The females show striking yellow and black markings on the abdomen like a wasp.

The spider builds a spiral orb web at dawn or dusk, commonly in long grass a little above ground level, taking it approximately an hour. The prominent zigzag shape called the stabilimentum, or web decoration, featured at the centre of the orb is of uncertain function, though it may be to attract insects.

When a prey item is first caught in the web, Argiope bruennichi will quickly immobilise its prey by wrapping it in silk. The prey is then bitten and then injected with a paralysing venom and a protein-dissolving enzyme.

Photos were taken in August, 2021, in Upper Bavaria.