Summary details for Ozyptila sanctuaria (O.P.-Cambridge, 1871)

Distribution

The species is widespread but generally scattered from the Isle of Man, North Wales and central England southwards. It is widespread in north-western Europe but absent from Scandinavia.

Habitat and ecology

O. sanctuaria occurs in open situations where it can be swept from herbage and undergrowth or found under stones and at the base of vegetation. It has been recorded from chalk and acid grassland, sea walls, lichen heath, roadside verges, old sand and chalk pits and under-cliffs. It is also occasionally found on heathland, but never commonly. Males are found between August and December, but mainly in September and October. Females have been recorded between February and December and can probably be found at any time of year.

Status

Local and generally scarce, but the spider is commoner in the south where it may be frequent in suitable habitat.

Threats

Loss of open habitats to seral succession, agricultural improvement and development are all potential threats.

Management and conservation

Maintain open habitats and structural habitat mosaic using rotational management involving disturbance or low levels of grazing. Text based on Dawson, I.K., Harvey, P.R., Merrett, P. & Russell-Smith, A.R. (in prep.).