| Scientific name | Eratigena agrestis |
|---|---|
| Group | Spiders |
| Size | 7–14 mm (up to about 0.55 in) |
| Colors | Brown |
| Legs | 8 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Basement or garage and Indoors, anywhere |
| Most active | Summer and Fall |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The hobo 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:
- Brown body with a herringbone pattern on the abdomen
- Plain brown legs without dark bands
- Funnel-shaped web in low, damp places
About this bug
A brown funnel-web spider of the Pacific Northwest that builds sheet webs with a funnel retreat in window wells, basements and woodpiles. Males wander indoors in late summer and fall.
You'll usually find hobo spiders in basements and garages and indoors. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Hobo spiders were once blamed for dangerous bites, but current research does not show they cause necrotic wounds.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see hobo spiders
Hobo 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: basement or garage and indoors, anywhere.
About spiders
The hobo 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. Hobo 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: Wolf Spiders are larger, reaching 35 mm, while hobo spiders top out around 14 mm.
Size: Brown Recluse Spiders are larger, reaching 20 mm, while hobo spiders top out around 14 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a hobo spider look like?
Brown body with a herringbone pattern on the abdomen. Adults measure 7–14 mm (up to about 0.55 in).
Does the hobo spider bite or sting?
It can bite. It does not sting. Hobo spiders were once blamed for dangerous bites, but current research does not show they cause necrotic wounds.
Where do hobo spiders live?
Hobo Spiders live in basements and garages and indoors.
When are hobo spiders most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.