A well marked spider with a rather distinctive triangular shape to the body. Cephalic region of prosoma USUALLY darker than thoracic region. However there are other similar species, and Tetragnatha obtusa and T. nigrita can only reliably be separated by detailed microscopic examination. 

Tetragnatha are difficult to identify and microscopic examination of the genitals of mature specimens is necessary to separate the species safely. 

Tetragnatha are difficult to identify and microscopic examination of the genitals of mature specimens is necessary to separate the species safely. 

This spider spins its orb webs on woodland trees especially in damper sites but is also found on heathland pines, and in parkland, churchyards and large well-planted gardens.

Found from early to mid summer, occasionally into September.

The species is locally common and is widespread in England and Wales but absent from much of Scotland.

Local in Leicestershire and Rutland.

1012 British records to Jan 2013