Orb Weaving Spiders
Araneidae; Tetragnathidae
Left: Banded garden spider (Ward Upham, Kansas State University, Bugwood.org) Right: Catface spider (Joseph Berger, Bugwood.org)
Left: Shamrock orb weaver (David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org) Right: Typical orb web (Tom Bean, Encyclopedia Britannica Online)
Long-jawed orb weaver (David Cappaert, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org)
Identification
- small to large spiders
- generally with a large, bulbus abdomen
- make classic orb-shaped web
Nesting Habits
- often found around buildings and homes in late summer and early fall, especially around overhanging structures (e.g., porches or entryways) or in ornamental plantings
- spiders die out every year and leave egg sac behind
- eggs hatch in spring and spiderlings disperse
- common near exterior lighting
Diet
- insects and spiders
Significance
- could be a nuisance pest outdoors, especially the webs
- not known to be a health hazard
- beneficial
IPM Recommendations
- Minimize nesting habitat around property.
- Seal exterior cracks and crevices to reduce daytime hiding places.
- Install tight-fitting door sweeps at the base of all exterior doors.
- Install tight-fitting screens in windows.
- Keep windows closed.
- Vacuum individuals and webs inside and outside of buildings on a daily basis.
- Step on or smash individual spiders that enter.
- Catch and release (with a glass jar) spiders found indoors.
- Change exterior lighting to sodium vapor bulbs.