People often see the orb weaver spider as the classic example of a spider. This species builds the circular-shaped webs that you commonly find in gardens, fields, and forests. These spiders inhabit every continent except Antarctica and the Arctic.
These notably large and vividly colored spiders weave intricate webs in concentric circles and wait to catch prey. Although their vision is generally poor, they rely on web vibrations to locate and identify their victims.
Orb Weaver Spider Habitat
Orb weavers are carnivorous and mainly feed on insects and other small organisms ensnared in their sticky webs. You can commonly find these spiders in gardens and around homes, especially during the summer months. Their large, circular webs can span up to six feet, often connecting buildings and shrubs. Homeowners usually don’t notice these spiders unless they spot a web after dark or accidentally walk into one.
Orb Weaver Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While orb weavers can bite, they rarely do so, and their bites are not harmful to humans. These spiders are generally benign, but they can annoy you if they build their sizable webs in inconvenient locations.
Occasionally, they may enter homes and construct webs in doorways or windowsills. Despite their intimidating appearance, these spiders are non-aggressive and not considered dangerous. However, encountering their large, sticky webs at night can be startling.
Orb Weaver Spiders in Florida
Florida is home to a wide variety of spiders; some are hazardous, while others are harmless. Most are content to coexist without interacting with humans.
SPINY ORB WEAVER
One particularly colorful specimen in Florida is the spinybacked orb weaver, Gasteracantha cancriformis. This spider may be smaller than some other orb weavers, but it stands out. It has a unique color and shape, and its web has distinct characteristics. People in parts of Florida colloquially call it the crab spider, although it is not a true crab spider.
This spider is small, with a size range of 1/8 to 1/4 inches. An oval white shell highlighted by red and black markings adorns its back. It resembles a crab in shape, leading to its occasional colloquial name.
These spiders are year-round residents in Florida, but their activity peaks between October and January.
These spiders mainly catch and consume small insects in their webs and frequent citrus groves and woodlands.
These spiders frequent citrus groves and woodlands.
Spiny orb weaver spiders pose neither a danger nor a threat to property.
GOLDEN SILK ORB WEAVER
The Banana Spider, commonly known as the Golden Silk Orb Weaver or Writing Spider, is one of Florida’s largest spiders. Female spiders of this species are usually larger than the males. They can have body lengths of up to 1.5 inches and leg spans that extend up to 5 inches. The spider’s distinctive yellow hue, reflected in its silk and large, round webs, sets it apart.
This flat, brown and yellow spider ranges in size from 1/4″ to 1-1/2″.
These nocturnal spiders are most active during the night.
A slight breeze, which brings a consistent flow of food, attracts these spiders to certain locations.
They commonly inhabit forests, trails, and dense shrubbery but are not well-suited for indoor environments.
Banana spiders are neither dangerous nor destructive but they do bite…and it hurts.
Take Back Your Peace of Mind
Concerned about the presence of spiders in and around your home? When dealing with any kind of spider—be it spiny orb weavers, banana spiders, or any other spider—expertise is crucial. Only a professional pest control service can offer the right solution.
On Demand Pest Control is highly experienced in handling various spider species found in Florida. This includes locations like Davie, Pembroke Pines, Pompano Beach, Naples, and other surrounding areas.
Our spider control treatments prioritize both safety and effectiveness. They are safe for your pets and the environment while being extremely effective in eradicating spider infestations.
Don’t let spiders create anxiety or disrupt your peace of mind. Contact On Demand Pest Control for a comprehensive and professional solution to your spider concerns. Take the first step to reclaim your home’s serenity; request your free, no-obligation quote today!
