Lady of the Manor (or the Compost Bin)

Years ago we bought a compost bin for the backyard, but we seldom used it. However, it's not sitting idle. A Southern Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans) came along, looked over the property, and decided to build a home inside. Now she sits at the edge of a massive web complex, clutching her egg sac protectively. What's so great about a compost bin? you might ask. Well, it's dark, roomy, weatherproof, and cool--which is why insects like it, and I don't need to explain the benefits of that for a spider. You should see the bottom of this bin: littered with bodies!

If I have the opportunity, I'll get some shots of the hatchlings before they disperse.