Garden spiders are usually common orb weaver spiders. There are actually a few different species that are referred to as "garden spiders" and they share some similar traits. Generally they are large black spiders with yellow and white markings on the body. They make large round webs with a distinctive circular pattern running around the inside of the web. Below is a description of one of the most common species.
The body is generally 1/16" to 1 3/4" long. With the leg span of some individuals covering up to 3 square inches. The body is mostly hairless, and has a yellow and black patterned abdomen. Its legs may be somewhat hairy.
