The Bird-dropping Araneid Spider (Cyrtarachne ixoides) is a unique species of orb-weaver belonging to the family Araneidae. It represents the only member of the tropical genus Cyrtarachne that extends its range into Europe. They are famous for having bulbous, often shiny abdomens that perfectly mimic the look of bird droppings. This disguise protects them from predators while they wait for prey.