Ground Spiders

Identification

• many different kinds; typically earthtone coloration
• found crawling around (not within a web)
• two large spinneretts sticking out the rear of the abdomen are even in size throughout their length (rather than tapering toward the end)

Nesting Habits

• found in leaf litter, grasses, ornamental plantings, areas around buildings
• make web chambers in which they lay eggs
• are active hunters that wander in search of food

Diet

• insects and other spiders

Significance

• nuisance when indoors
• not known to be a health hazard
• beneficial

IPM Recommendations

• Minimize nesting habitat around property.
• Seal exterior cracks and crevices.
• Install tight-fitting door sweeps at the base of all exterior doors.
• Vacuum individuals that enter buildings.
• 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.
• Use pest monitors to capture invading spiders, especially between August and October.

Additional Resources:

IPM for Spiders: Integrated Pest Management in Sensitive Environments (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension)