The western spotted orb-weaver (Neoscona arabesca) is a close relative of the spotted orb-weaver (Neoscona oaxacensis) and is common throughout Arizona's grasslands, desert scrub, and agricultural areas. It is slightly smaller than the spotted orb-weaver, with females reaching about 1/2 inch in body length. The coloration is variable — typically brown to reddish-brown with a spotted or striped abdominal pattern. Unlike the spotted orb-weaver, which favors building webs near lights on structures, the western spotted orb-weaver more commonly builds webs in low vegetation, grasses, and shrubs. It is nocturnal and rebuilds its web nightly. This species is common in Arizona's monsoon season when insect populations peak and spider activity is highest.