The Golden Silk Orb-weaver, also known as the Banana Spider (Trichonephila clavipes), is a large, non-dangerous spider found in the southeastern U.S. and other warm regions, recognized by its metallic gold, incredibly strong webs and its distinctive orange and brown body with feathery leg tufts. These spiders are not aggressive and will only bite if handled or pinched, with the bite causing only mild, localized pain. They are beneficial predators, feeding on flying insects like flies, bees, and