| Scientific name | Neoscona crucifera |
|---|---|
| Group | Spiders |
| Size | 7–15 mm (up to about 0.59 in) |
| Colors | Brown, Orange and Red |
| Legs | 8 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Garden or plants and Indoors, anywhere |
| Most active | Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Harmless |
How to identify it
The spotted orbweaver 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:
- Large, round, hairy abdomen, often reddish or orange
- Legs banded with lighter and darker rings
- Fresh circular web at night that is gone or hidden by day
About this bug
A round, hairy orb weaver that builds a new web each evening on porches, eaves and shrubs. By day it hides in a curled leaf or a nearby corner.
You'll usually find spotted orbweavers in gardens and on plants and indoors. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Spotted orbweavers are harmless and help control flying insects.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see spotted orbweavers
Spotted Orbweavers 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 and indoors, anywhere.
About spiders
The spotted orbweaver 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. Spotted Orbweavers 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: Yellow Garden Spiders are larger, reaching 28 mm, while spotted orbweavers top out around 15 mm.
Size: Spotted Orbweavers are larger, reaching 15 mm, while common house spiders top out around 8 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a spotted orbweaver look like?
Large, round, hairy abdomen, often reddish or orange. Adults measure 7–15 mm (up to about 0.59 in).
Does the spotted orbweaver bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Spotted orbweavers are harmless and help control flying insects.
Where do spotted orbweavers live?
Spotted Orbweavers live in gardens and on plants and indoors.
When are spotted orbweavers most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.