| Scientific name | Misumena vatia |
|---|---|
| Group | Spiders |
| Size | 3–10 mm (up to about 0.39 in) |
| Colors | White and Yellow |
| Legs | 8 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Garden or plants |
| Most active | Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Harmless |
How to identify it
The goldenrod crab spider is a small member of the spiders group. Eight legs, two body sections and silk-spinning organs at the rear. Check for these three features:
- Front two pairs of legs much longer and held out like a crab's
- White or yellow body, sometimes with red side stripes
- Sits motionless on flowers such as goldenrod and daisies
About this bug
A small, crab-like spider that sits on flowers waiting to ambush bees and flies. It can slowly change color between white and yellow to match its flower.
You'll usually find goldenrod crab spiders in gardens and on plants. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Crab spiders are harmless; their fangs are too small to hurt most people.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see goldenrod crab spiders
Goldenrod Crab Spiders are most active in summer and fall. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: garden or plants.
About spiders
The goldenrod crab spider is one of the spiders. Spiders have eight legs, two main body sections and no antennae. Almost all spiders have venom to subdue prey, but only a few have venom that matters to people. Many build webs, while others, such as wolf spiders and jumping spiders, hunt on foot.
Spiders go where their food is. A home with lots of spiders usually has plenty of other insects, so general pest control reduces spiders too.
Should you get rid of it?
No control is needed. Goldenrod Crab Spiders are not pests, and many help by eating other insects or pollinating plants. If one is indoors, move it outside with a cup and a sheet of paper.
Bugs that look similar
Size: Bold Jumping Spiders are larger, reaching 15 mm, while goldenrod crab spiders top out around 10 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a goldenrod crab spider look like?
Front two pairs of legs much longer and held out like a crab's. Adults measure 3–10 mm (up to about 0.39 in).
Does the goldenrod crab spider bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Crab spiders are harmless; their fangs are too small to hurt most people.
Where do goldenrod crab spiders live?
Goldenrod Crab Spiders live in gardens and on plants.
When are goldenrod crab spiders most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.