(Click on images to enlarge)
This lady with the prickly back end is a Spined Micrathena. The purpose of her spines is unknown, apparently; I've seen some discussions and speculations online, but none of it sounds certain.
We know she's a female because she has built a web, as we can see in this view of her underside …
… which is something males of this species don't do once they have "attained sexual maturity." (Source)
Like most web-building spiders, she likes to eat mosquitoes and flies, so she's A-OK in my book.
She is a bit shy and didn't really like having her photo taken. That's why she left the middle of her web and ran to take shelter on the goldenrod.
For a picture of a male Spined Micrathena, click here.
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