Though they may look scary, black and yellow garden spiders feed mainly on insects, so their presence is actually beneficial to the landscape. Typically found in late summer, they usually build their webs in open areas as opposed to dense shrubs or inside shelters. These "writing" spiders may bite if disturbed or harassed, but the venom is harmless to non-allergic humans. More info: bit.ly/3fTXLKf | NC Wildlife Resources Commission