| Scientific name | Argiope aurantia |
|---|---|
| Group | Spiders |
| Size | 5–28 mm (up to about 1.1 in) |
| Colors | Black 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 yellow garden spider is a medium-sized member of the spiders group. Eight legs, two body sections and silk-spinning organs at the rear. Check for these three features:
- Black and bright yellow patterned abdomen
- Zigzag silk ribbon (stabilimentum) in the center of the web
- Large orb web in sunny spots between plants
About this bug
A large black-and-yellow orb weaver that spins a big circular web with a thick zigzag band in the center. It sits head-down in the hub of the web in sunny gardens.
You'll usually find yellow garden spiders in gardens and on plants. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Yellow garden spiders are not aggressive; a bite is rare and similar to a bee sting.
Our rating: Harmless, meaning it poses no real threat to people, pets or property.
When you'll see yellow garden spiders
Yellow Garden 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 yellow garden 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. Yellow Garden 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: Yellow Garden Spiders are larger, reaching 28 mm, while spotted orbweavers top out around 15 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does a yellow garden spider look like?
Black and bright yellow patterned abdomen. Adults measure 5–28 mm (up to about 1.1 in).
Does the yellow garden spider bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Yellow garden spiders are not aggressive; a bite is rare and similar to a bee sting.
Where do yellow garden spiders live?
Yellow Garden Spiders live in gardens and on plants.
When are yellow garden spiders most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.