The raft spider (Dolomedes fimbriatus) is a medium sized ( 0.5 - 2 cm ) semi-aquatic spider found primarily in wetlands, bogs, and marshes across the UK and Europe. Belonging to the nursery web spider family (Pisauridae), The raft spider is named for its ability to walk on water living a similar lifestyle to pond skaters and water crickets which are its main competitors. It hunts by sensing vibrations on the water's surface and feeds on insects that fall on the waters surface. Females are known for their maternal care, carrying egg sacs in their jaws and building protective nursery webs for their young.