D. cupreus is the most common of the UK spiders in this genus but cannot easily be distinguished from D. lapidotus. The female is 9-18 mm with a mousy grey abdomen and long tubular spinners. If we cannot be certain that an image is D. cupreus but it is likely to be this species, it is highlighted in a red box

It is very similar to D. lapidotus and certain identification requires detailed examination.

Under stones and leaf litter in dry places.

A ground spider - it is a fierce nocturnal hunter, spending the day in its silken retreat. In 1999 Swedish scientists discovered that it has a built in sense of navigation.

Common and widespread in Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

3108 British records to Jan 2013