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Orb-Weaver Spider close up from above - commercial spider control in Middleburg Heights | General Pest Control

Orb-Weaver Spider

Actual Size: 6 mm to 20 mm

Characteristics: Come in various colors, including brown, gray, black, yellow, and sometimes green. Some species have distinctive patterns on their abdomens.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Most prevalent in the summer, constructing expansive, circular webs in garden spaces, along eaves, and amidst shrubbery near residences.

Habits:

  • Sometimes called garden spiders.
  • Females deposit their eggs in silk sacs.
  • Constructs webs that span up to six feet in diameter.
  • Not aggressive and will usually retreat to safety if disturbed.


Orb-Weavers Spiders in Cleveland

Considered the epitome of spiders, the orb weaver is renowned for its familiar circular webs that adorn gardens, fields, and forests across the globe. These spiders are large, strikingly colorful creatures found everywhere except the Arctic and Antarctica. Orb weavers meticulously weave intricate webs in concentric circles within garden environments, patiently waiting for prey to become ensnared. They typically have poor eyesight and depend on web vibrations to detect and identify prey.

Orb-Weaver Spider Habitat

Orb weavers, like all spiders, are carnivorous creatures that primarily prey on insects and other small organisms ensnared in their adhesive webs. They thrive most during the summer months, particularly in garden spaces and near residential areas. These spiders construct expansive circular webs, sometimes spanning up to six feet or more, often positioned between buildings and shrubbery. Homeowners may remain unaware of their presence until encountering these webs under lighted conditions at night or accidentally walking into them in the dark. Typically, these webs are anchored by the eaves of buildings, with the lower strands attached to nearby shrubs or the ground.

Orb-Weaver Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Orb-weaver spiders pose minimal threats and dangers to humans. While they are venomous and capable of biting if provoked, their venom is generally mild and not harmful to humans. Bites from orb-weavers are rare and typically result in minor symptoms such as localized pain, redness, or swelling. These spiders are not aggressive and will usually retreat rather than bite when disturbed. The main concern with orb-weaver spiders is accidental encounters, such as walking into their webs, which can be startling but not medically significant.

If you are dealing with orb-weaver spiders inside your property, contact your local spider exterminators.