Harvestman (Daddy Longlegs) – 10/2/13

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 10/2/13

Observation Time: 12:15 p.m.

Observation Place: Woods near Beaver Brook (near Sharon train station)

Common Name: Harvestman (Daddy Longlegs)

Scientific Name: Opiliones family

Comments: Harvestmen are 8-legged arachnids, but they are not true spiders. Their bodies are oval-shaped and have no waist like a spider. They do not produce venom, and they are harmless to humans. Harvestmen are omnivores, eating a variety of organic material, or scavengers, feeding on feces or carrion, but some are predatory on aphids and other small insects.

More Information: Missouri Department of Conservation