Leiobunum rotundum, Harvestman

Common Name: Harvestman

The harvestmen most frequently seen are species of Opilio, Odiellus and Leiobunum that live in hedgerows, parks and gardens amongst rough vegetation or on tree trunks, walls and fences. All are moderately large, the body up to about 10 mm long, and more or less brownish in colour. Most species are nocturnal, though often seen resting on walls and fences by day, with legs spread widely and almost invisible.

Harvestmen feed on a wide range of living and dead animal matter, mainly comprised of small invertebrates (insect larvae, mites, young spiders, etc., or their dead remains), although they sometimes also attack juicy plant matter, primarily for its water content. More often, though, they obtain water from dewdrops on vegetation.

Most species have an annual life cycle, usually passing the winter as eggs and maturing in late summer - hence their common name.

https://www.uknature.co.uk is a website dedicated to showing the immense diversity of UK nature and wildlife. Our vast range of habitats, from lowland arable to snow covered mountains, from storm-ravaged coastlines to peaceful inland freshwater lakes and rivers, from dry, sandy heaths to deciduous and coniferous forests, all these habitats contribute to the abundance of UK nature. We have wild birds in huge numbers either residing or visiting our shores (597 recorded species as at July 2013) and we must also not forget the humble back garden with its grass lawns, flower beds filled with nectar rich flowers, shrubs and trees, all designed to attract huge numbers of insects such as bees, moths, butterflies and hoverflies; and finally the small ponds which provide safe havens for frogs, toads, newts and even slow worms and grass snakes. www.uknature.co.uk is the showcase for my personal passion, photographing uknature in all its glory. I sincerely hope you all enjoy the fruits of my labours.