70 Colorful Spiders in Louisiana

In Louisiana, it is estimated there are over 200 different spider species that live within the state.

This article will cover 70 types of spiders that you may find in Louisiana, and the important things to know about them. While some species are extremely different, other spiders may be nearly identical, with only slight differences between them.

While taking a look at the spiders in Louisiana we will cover things like their behavior, where they live, webbing, and how they look. Knowing all the spiders in an area is difficult since new species are always being discovered, and some spiders may only live in a specific reclusive area.

Let’s take a look at 70 types of spiders that live in Louisiana that you may come across.

Spiders in Louisiana

1. American Grass Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Agelenidae
• Scientific Name: Agelenopsis naevia
• Other Names: Funnel weavers, sheet web spiders
• Adult Size: 9 to 20 mm (0.35 to 0.78 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Grass spiders are a very common spider found in the United States, and live all across the country, including Louisiana. This spider is a type of funnel weaver, creating a web with funnel retreat for them to hide in.

Grass spiders live in a variety of habitats, but as their name suggests they build their web often on lawns. Potted plants, the sides of buildings, and other similar places several inches above the ground are where they also build their webs.

Grass spiders have tan coloring, and are sometimes confused for wolf spiders, but their eye arrangements can tell these spiders apart. Grass spider eyes are arranged in three rows, with two eyes on the top row, three eyes on the middle row, and one on the bottom row. Tan in color, this spider has dark stripes that run down its body and a wavy mottled pattern on its abdomen.

On the back of their abdomen grass spiders have a “tail” which are large spinnerets that help them create their funnel web. This spider is nocturnal and waits near the edge of its funnel to pounce on prey that gets close.

2. Southern House Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Filistatidae 
• Scientific Name: Kukulcania hibernalis
• Other Names: Southern crevice spider 
• Adult Size: 9 to 19 mm (0.35 to 0.74 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 8 years 
• Average Price Range: $30

Southern house spiders are a common species that inhabit the southern regions of the United States. This spider is one of the larger species in Louisiana but is not seen often.

Females create messy webs with a crevice for them to hide in, while males live a more nomadic lifestyle. In homes, window sills, and dark corners in buildings are where this spider lives.

Large in size, the southern house spider has dark brown, or gray coloring. They have a bulbous abdomen, with spindly legs.

Females have more robust bodies than males, but males have larger pedipalps. This species is sometimes confused with the brown recluse but is much larger in size.

Southern house spiders are considered a pest and can be controlled by managing the prey they feed on. Roaches flies, beetles, and other common house insects are what they usually eat.

Despite their size, this spider is usually harmless. Their messy webs are the biggest indicator of their presence.

3. Barn Funnel Weaver 

• Experience Level: Beginner  
• Family: Agelenidae 
• Scientific Name: Tegenaria domestica
• Other Names: Domestic house spider 
• Adult Size: 6 to 11.5 mm (0.24 to 0.45 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 5 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The Barn funnel weavers are found across the United States. This spider builds funnel-shaped webs with a retreat for them to hide in.

Barn funnel weavers make their webs on barns, fences, other man-made structures, and in the crevices of natural debris. Louisiana and other parts of the southern United States are where this species is found often.

Barn funnel weavers have tan coloring, with dark markings on their heads, and abdomens. Their legs are covered in thick hairs, which helps them sense when prey gets into their webs. A mottled pattern appears on their abdomen.

This spider sits in its web and attaches a string to feel the vibrations of incoming prey. While males usually die after mating, if females find a suitable place to live they can survive winter.

Barn funnel weavers are not typically aggressive, and if they are disturbed they will go into their retreats.

4. Hacklemesh Weaver

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Amaurobiidae 
• Scientific Name: Callobius bennetti
• Other Names: Tangled nest spider 
• Adult Size: 5 to 14 mm (0.19 to 0.55 inches) 
• Lifespan: 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The hacklemesh weaver is a spider that is found in North America, and across the United States in places like Louisiana. This spider builds its web in damp and dark places.

Under leaf litter, woodpiles, stones, and bark are common places they are found. During the fall and winter months, it is more common to find them indoors in places like damp basements. 

Hacklemesh weavers like most spiders are sexually dimorphic. Males have smaller abdomens with longer legs, while females are more robust.

Hacklemesh weavers have dark tan coloring, with dark brown bands on their legs. Chevron-like markings appear on their abdomens, and their legs are typically lighter in color than their carapace.

This spider gets its name from the irregular mesh web it produces. Females usually live around 2 years and lay between 73 to 175 eggs in the web they live in. It is debated whether this spider’s venom is medically significant.

A verified bite from this species caused mild pain, itching, swelling, and nausea. 

5. Hentz Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Neoscona crucifera
• Other Names: Spotted orb weaver 
• Adult Size: 5 to 20 mm (0.19 to 0.78 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a

The Hentz orbweavers are one of the many spiders in Louisiana within the Araneidae family. This species is more common in woodland, grasslands, or urban areas with lots of vegetation.

Orb-shaped webs are built by the females of this species to live in, while males spend their time wandering for a mate. Their webs can span up to 2 feet in diameter and are placed in places with lots of insect activity.

Hentz orbweavers come in a variety of colors like golden orange, rusty red, black, or tan. Females have large bulbous abdomens, while males have smaller bodies.

Thick hairs cover them. On the underside of their abdomen, two white spots appear on them, which give them the nickname the “spotted orbweaver”.

Early summer and fall are when you are likely to see this spider most. Their webs are sometimes built on porches or barns, near lighting that attracts insects.

Hentz orbweaver feed on flying insects like moths, mosquitoes, gnats, and other similar insects. They are nocturnal, but breeding females may be active during the day for extra nutrition.

6. Red-femured Spotted Orbweaver

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Neoscona domiciliorum
• Other Names: Spotted Orbweaver 
• Adult Size: 7 to 16 mm ( 0.28 to 0.63 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Native to the United States, red-femured spotted orbweavers are more common in the southeastern United States. Moist woodlands are the habitats they prefer to live in, but they may sometimes be found on the sides of buildings.

This species builds a large circular web, spanning up to 20 inches in diameter. Summer and fall is when they are active most, and when not in their web they hide nearby in a retreat made with leaves of other debris.

Adults have white, or yellowish markings that appear on their abdomens, as well as black stripes on them. Small hairs cover their body, and on the underside of their abdomen are four white spots.

This spider gets its name from the vibrant red coloring that appears on the femur section of its legs. Females can reach twice the size of males and also are the ones to build large webs.

Red-femured spotted orbweaver are nocturnal, and before the day comes this spider takes down its web to stay hidden. Females that are laying eggs may be active day and night, leaving their web up to feed on more insects.

7. Cross Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Araneus diadematus 
• Other Names: European garden spider
• Adult Size: 5.5 to 20 mm (0.2 to 0.7 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a

The cross orbweaver is also called the European garden spider since it is a European native that has found a home within North America.

This spider lives in habitats such as fields, gardens, forests, and urban areas. They prefer places with lots of vegetation and moisture.

Tan, gray, and yellowish are the colors of this spider. They have a wavy pattern that runs down their abdomen, and get their common name from the blotches on their back that form a white cross. This spider is covered in thick hairs and has dark bands on its legs.

Cross orbweavers use their large circular webs to catch prey, wrapping them up in silk before administering their venom. While their bites paralyze small insects, this spider’s venom is harmless to humans, only biting if provoked.

When predators get near this species may vibrate in its web to make itself less visible, and look more like a blur. Birds and other spiders are this species’ main predators.

8. Giant Lichen Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Araneus bicentenarius
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 10 to 30 mm ( 0.39 to 1.18 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Giant lichen orbweavers are mainly found in the eastern half of the United States. Moist woodlands and wood-edged habitats are where this species is found most.

They build larger circular webs that can get up to 8 feet in diameter. Unlike other orbweavers, this spider prefers to sit on the edge of its web to wait for food.

Named after their coloring and markings, this spider’s appearance helps it camouflage into habitats with lots of lichen moss. This species is larger than other orbweavers and has greenish, tan, and black coloring. They have dark bands on their legs and humps on their abdomen.

Giant lichen orbweavers are nocturnal and use their large webs to feed on flying insects. This spider builds a nearby retreat to rest during the day and ambushes prey at night.

April to September are the months this spider is seen most. Birds and wasps are this spider’s main predators.

9. Shamrock Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Araneus trifolium 
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 6 to 40 mm (0.2 to 1.57 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 

Shamrock spiders are found all across the United States and also live in Canada. Females of this species like other orbweavers make circular webs, up to two feet in diameter.

Shamrock spiders live in humid places with lots of vegetation. Gardens, grasslands, and man-made structures like barns are where this spider builds its webs.

Tannish brown is the color of this species. They may have a greenish, or orangish shade. Their abdomens are covered in several white dots, and dark bands appear on their leg joints. Shamrock spiders have a very bulbous abdomen and spindly legs.

Harmless to humans, the bite of the shamrock spider gives similar pain to that of a bee sting. Their venom like others in the Araneidae family is harmless unless allergic.

Shamrock spiders feed on pest insects that get caught in their web and hide in a nearby retreat to ambush prey.

10. Marbled Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae
• Scientific Name: Araneus marmoreus
• Other Names: Pumpkin spider 
• Adult Size: 9 to 22 mm (0.35 to 0.86 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 

Marbled orbweavers are found all across the United States. Summer and fall are when this spider appears, and they live in moist environments with lots of vegetation.

Marbled orbweavers build circular webs, making a retreat made out of leaves for them to hide in. Younger spiders make their retreat out of only silk.

The marbling pattern that appears on this spider’s abdomen is where its common name comes from, and can help identify this spider from others. Marbled orbweavers’ coloring ranges from brown to purplish, but orange is their most common color.

They have orange coloring on their legs and cephalothorax. Their legs have dark bands and are covered in thick hairs.

Fall is when this spider lays its eggs, and spiderlings begin to emerge in the spring. Females are more aggressive if they are defending their egg sacs, but bites only occur if they are provoked.

11. Cat-faced Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Araneus gemmoides
• Other Names: Jewel Spider 
• Adult Size: 5 to 7 mm (0.19 to 0.27 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Cat-faced spiders live in the United States and Canada. This spider lives in circular webs, making its home on front porches with lights and other areas with lots of flying insects.

Summer and fall are when this spider is active. They may be seen during the day in the center of their web, sometimes repairing it.

The abdomen of this spider has two large humps that look like cat ears, and dimples appear on its back that looks similar to cat eyes. Males and females both have a cat-like appearance, but females have larger abdomens.

Cat-faced spiders have tan to orange coloring. Their legs have dark bands on their joints, with thick hairs covering them.

Cat-faced spiders’ colors change from summer to winter, turning a darker orange. Females die after they lay their eggs, while their spiderlings wait to emerge until spring.

Large insects are what this spider eats, but when young cannibalism is common among siblings.

12. Furrow Orbweaver

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Larinioides cornutus
• Other Names: Furrow Spider
• Adult Size: 10 to 12 mm (0.39 to 0.47 inches
• Lifespan: 2 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The furrow orbweavers range covers the entire United States, and this spider has a large Holarctic distribution.

Furrow orbweavers live in moist environments, attaching their webs to low-lying grass and shrubs. The night is when this spider is seen most, and during the day they hide in a retreat.

Females are the creators of the orb-shaped webs and use pheromones to lure males to mate. Females make between three to five egg sacs in summer, which are yellow and contain hundreds of eggs.

Furrow orbweavers have tan coloring, and their name comes from the furrow pattern that runs down their abdomen. Females are larger than males, sometimes reaching double in size.

Their eyes are placed in one row with six, with two additional eyes above in a row. Large hairs cover their bodies which help them sense things in their webs.

Furrow orbweavers feed on ants, mosquitoes, flies, and other insects that are considered pests. This spider is harmless to humans, and only dangerous for those allergic to spider venom.

This species is one of the few spiders that can survive winter, and it regulates its body to survive the cold.

13. Starbellied Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae
• Scientific Name: Acanthepeira stellata
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 5 to 15 mm ( 0.19 to 0.59 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year
• Average Price Range: $20

Starbellied orb weavers live across North America and are a spider you may find in Louisiana.

This spider lives in meadows, grasslands, and other places with low-lying vegetation. Star-bellied orb-weavers are common in agricultural fields and are active from spring to fall.

Large circular webs around 6 to 10 inches in diameter are where females live. They can be seen sitting in the center of their web with their head down during the day.

This spider gets its name from its abdomen, which has star-like spikes that come out of it. This spider ranges from tan, brown, gray, and olive, to yellowish in color.

They have around 12 spikes in total and are covered in a mottled pattern. Males also have these spikes but are not seen often unless going in a female’s web.

The orb-shaped web this spider creates is used to catch flying insects. This spider uses its venom to subdue prey but is harmless to humans.

Mud daubers and wasps are this spider’s main predators. Wasps will paralyze them, and take their bodies to their nest for their young to feed on.

14. Tropical Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae
• Scientific Name: Eriophora ravilla
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 9 to 13 mm (0.35 to 0.51 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: $20 

The tropical orb weaver lives mostly in the southern United States in places with a tropical environment such as Louisiana. This spider is native to the United States and lives in habitats like open woodlands.

Their webs are in places with lots of vegetation. During the day this spider hides in a retreat, but at night they hang in the center of their web.

Tropical orbweavers’ coloring ranges from white to black.  Most of these spiders are reddish brown or gray, and on their abdomen is a triangle-shaped marking.

Humps appear toward the front of their abdomen. This species sometimes have bright greenish markings on their abdomen, a stripe, or spots. Lots of hair covers the species, and their legs have black coloring near their bodies.

The markings that appear on this spider vary, and change as they age. This species is not seen often since it hides within dense vegetation.

They are large in size, but harmless to humans, with bites only causing mild pain for a few hours.

15. Trashline Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Cyclosa turbinata
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 3.17 to 6.35 mm (0.12 to 0.25 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Wooded habitats and other places with lots of low-lying vegetation are where the trashline orbweaver lives.

This spider, like other similar species, builds circular webs but puts debris in a line down the center of their web. The trashline they make looks like bird droppings, and this spider hides within the debris to avoid predators.

Trashline orb weavers are small species and look similar to the debris they put in their web. They have tan, gray, or brownish coloring, and have a mottled pattern. Trashline orb weavers when in their web sit with their legs tucked in their abdomen.

This species, when threatened, shakes its web to avoid being seen. They have a large range since after hatching they balloon or use silk to travel in the air using the wind.

Trashline orbweavers feed on small flying insects like beetles, flies, and midges.

16. Tuft-legged Orbweaver

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Mangora placida
• Other Names: Tufted Orb Weaver 
• Adult Size: 5 to 7 mm ( 0.19 to 0.27 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a

The tuft-legged orb weaver is a spider not seen often, because of its smaller size. This species is mainly spotted in the spring and early summer months.

This spider builds a small web with mesh-like silk. They live across most of North America in habitats like gardens, woodlands, and grasslands.

Tuft-legged orb weavers get their name from the thick hairs that appear on their legs, which help them sense prey in their webs, and better navigate their silk. This species has a mottled brown and white coloring on its rounded abdomen.

Places with lots of small insects are where this spider builds its webs. They hang around low-lying vegetation, and when not in their web hide within the plant life.

The web it builds has small holes, and is more tightly knit when compared with other spiders, making it easier for them to catch smaller insects.

17. Lined Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate   
• Family: Araneidae
• Scientific Name: Mangora gibberosa 
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 5 to 6 mm (0.2 to 0.25 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The lined orbweaver range covers the eastern half of the United States, and this spider is one of many in Louisiana. Lined orbweavers like other similar spiders build orb webs, but in the center of their webs is a circular stabilimentum made with thick silk.

This spider is more common in open fields instead in woodland habitats. They prefer places with low-lying plant life.

Lined orbweavers have white abdomens, with translucent green heads and legs. They are covered in thick hairs, and get their name from the brown lines that appear on their back. Their abdomens also have yellowish coloring along with dark markings.

The thick circular webbing in the center of their web is theorized to make their webbing more visible to flying birds, as well as make it more resistant to weather like rain or wind. Lined orbweavers are harmless to humans, and are beneficial in gardens since they feed on a variety of pest insects.

18. Triangle Spider

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Verrucosa arenata
• Other Names: arrowhead spider 
• Adult Size: 3.17 to 6.35 mm (0.12 to 0.25 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The triangle spider is found all over North America. This species uses trees, and bushes to support their webs. Gardens, parks, fields, and woodlands are where this spider lives.

Triangle spiders are active during the day and prefer humid areas with lots of sunlight. Their webs are used to catch insects, and by night their silk is destroyed.

This species has a triangular-shaped abdomen, with a white or yellow marking on it. Males are much smaller in size than females, lack the triangular marking on their bodies, and are rarely seen.

Females have reddish brown, tan, or black coloring on their triangular bodies. Their legs have dark bands on them, and their heads are much smaller than their bodies.

Triangle spiders are often seen in the center of their web during the day. They ambush prey that falls into their web and use their bite to paralyze prey.

Dipterans and hymenopterans insects are this spider’s most common prey.

19. Spinybacked Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Gasteracantha cancriformis 
• Other Names: crab-like orb weaver, crown spider
• Adult Size: 2 to 9 mm (0.07 to 0.35 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Gardens, woodlands, backyards, and shrubbed habitats are where the spiny-backed orbweaver lives.

This spider is active during the day, and within its range is distributed across the southeast United States and parts of California. Spinybacked orbweavers are sometimes called crab spiders, but this species is not a part of the Thomisidae family.

This spider has a white, red, or yellowish oval-shaped abdomen. They are covered in black dimples and have around 6 spikes protruding from their abdomen.

The head and legs of the spiny-backed orbweaver are black and have a crab-like appearance. Their spikes are either red or black. Males are much smaller in size and lack a spiny appearance.

This spider is beneficial in gardens, and agricultural fields since they eat pest insects. Spinybacked orbweavers feed on things like flies, moths, beetles, and mosquitoes.

The spikes on this spider are thought to keep predators away and allow them to sit in the center of their web during the day.

20. Spined Micrathena 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Micrathena gracilis 
• Other Names: Castleback orbweaver 
• Adult Size: 4 to 10 mm (0.15 to 0.31 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Spined micrathena is a native species of North America.

This spider wanders to create webs, making new websites weekly. Spined micrathena live in woodland habitats next to ponds, lakes, or other similar water sources.

They mate during the flood seasons and live along the edges of water with lots of vegetation. Females live in large circular webs, and it is common for these spiders to live near each other.

Spined micrathena are sexually dimorphic, with females having black spikes that protrude from their white abdomen. Female abdomens are covered in yellow and black markings.

Males do not have spikes and have small tan pill-shaped abdomen. This spider has dark brown coloring on their legs and cephalothorax.

This spider is active mostly in the summer and they are not seen often since they are nocturnal. Females are the ones who create the large webs, while males only use silk to travel and mate.

21. White Micrathena 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Micrathena mitrata
• Other Names: Spiny orbweavers 
• Adult Size: 4.2 to 10.8 mm (0.16 to 0.42 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a  

The white micrathena is a spider found in the U.S., with its range stretching into South America. This species builds webs in places like gardens and woodlands.

This spider builds its web horizontally, instead of making vertical webs like other orbweavers. White micrathena are mainly found in the eastern United States, including Louisiana.

Small in size, the white micrathena has a tiny turban-shaped abdomen. They have a reddish brown head and tan legs.

This spider has brownish dimples on them and pointed tubercles on the top of their abdomen. Males are small and lack tiny spikes.

The webs of this spider are designed to prey on small flying insects like mosquitoes, gnats, and other flying bugs. The spaces in their web are smaller, and their silk is knit closer together.

This spider is harmless to humans and is beneficial in getting rid of pests.

22. Arrow-shaped Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Arneidae 
• Scientific Name: Micrathena sagittata
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 5 to 9 mm (0.20 to 0.35 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a  

Central America and the eastern United States are where the arrow-shaped orb weaver is found.

Open woodlands, backyards, and gardens are common places where this spider lives. The arrow-shaped orb weaver hatches from their eggs in the spring and spends the summer and fall mating.

This species gets its common name from the shape of its abdomen, which looks like an arrow. They have large spikes that come out the back of their abdomen and smaller tubercles around their body.

The legs and cephalothorax of the arrow-shaped orb weaver are reddish to brown in color. They have yellow abdomens, with black spikes. Males are not seen often and lack the spikes.

Birds are this spider’s main predator, and birds also use this spider’s webbing to create their nest. Small insects are what this spider eats, and their webs are made with closer spacing.

The warmer months during the day are when this spider is seen most.

23. Black and Yellow Garden Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Argiope aurantia 
• Other Names: Yellow garden spider  
• Adult Size: 5 to 28 mm ( 0.2 to 1.1 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: $8

The black and yellow garden spider is found all across the United States. This spider lives in gardens, open fields, and other places with lots of sunlight.

The summer and fall months are the best time to spot this spider, and they prefer to live in areas with lots of humidity. Black and yellow garden spiders build large webs supported by low vegetation, and they are one of the few orbweavers that are diurnal.

As their name suggests this spider has black and yellow coloring, with white markings on its abdomen. Their bodies have a pointed shape, while their legs are banded and spindly. Males are much smaller than females and are about 0.25% smaller.

Running down the center of this spider’s web is a zig-zag stabilimentum. This zig-zag pattern is believed to camouflage their webs to insects and make them visible for birds to see. This spider is not aggressive, and their venom is harmless.

The black and yellow garden spider breeds twice a year, and males pluck on a female’s string to get their attention. Males have a safety line since cannibalism when mating is common.

Females create a papery egg sac with golden silk hidden in vegetation.

24. Banded Garden Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Argiope trifasciata
• Other Names: Banded orb-weaving spider 
• Adult Size: 15 to 25 mm (0.59 to 0.98 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The banded garden spider is one of the garden spiders that live in Louisiana. This spider is native to North and South America, with its range extending to parts of Europe.

Banded garden spiders appear during the fall months, and are active in the day. Gardens, fields, and other open areas with tall grasses are where this spider lives.

Bands cover this spider’s body and legs, and they are larger than most members of the orbweaver family. Yellow, silver, and black bands cover this spider. They have a pointed round abdomen, and when sitting in their web they position their legs in an X shape.

The banded garden spider uses its large web to capture prey. They ambush prey that falls into their web and inject them with venom.

Down the center of their web is a stabilimentum, which helps their webs be seen by flying birds.

25. Silver Garden Orbweaver

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Araneidae 
• Scientific Name: Argiope argentata
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 3 to 17 mm ( 0.11 to 0.66 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: $25 

Silver garden spiders are native to the United States, with their range stretching all the way to South America.

Gardens, shrublands, and other similar habitats are where this spider lives. Females create large webs and sit in them with their heads down, and legs in an X shape during the day.

This spider looks similar to other garden spiders and is sexually dimorphic. Females are much larger than males and have spiky bumps near the end of their abdomen.

This species has silver coloring on its head and carapace. They have dark brown, and silver bands on their legs. Their abdomens also have silver and yellow coloring.

Butterflies, moths, mosquitoes, and grasshoppers are what this spider eats. Their silk is UV reflecting which helps them attract prey.

This spider creates a stabilimentum like other garden spiders, which is a zig-zag pattern down the center of its web. Silver garden spiders are often found in moist environments, and they drink the silk drops that land on their web.

26. Golden Silk Spider

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Araneidae
• Scientific Name: Trichonephila clavipes
• Other Names: Banana Spider
• Adult Size: 24 to 50 mm (0.94 to 1.96 inches)
• Lifespan: 6 months to a year
• Average Price Range: n/a

Golden silk orbweavers are very large garden spiders and one of the largest orbweavers in Louisiana. This species is found in the southeastern United States.

They are named after the large webs they build, which have a golden hue that shines in the sun. Highly vegetated areas like gardens and woodlands are where this spider lives.

Golden silk orbweavers have an elongated body and long spindly legs. They have yellow abdomens, with white spots on them. Their long legs have red, and yellow bands on them, with black tufts of hair.

The head of this spider is silver, and its underside is a black and yellow mottled pattern. Males of this species are much smaller in size and usually reach around ¼ the size of a female’s leg.

Insects like flies, moths, wasps, and other similar bugs are what this spider eats. Because of their size, they are capable of eating small birds or frogs if they get tangled in their silk.

The venom of this spider is not harmful to humans despite its flashy colors.

27. Orchard Orbweaver 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Tetragnathidae
• Scientific Name: Leucauge venusta
• Other Names: Orchard spider 
• Adult Size: 3.5 to 7.5 mm (0.13 to 0.29 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 

The orchard orbweaver is found across Louisiana, and its range covers the eastern, and southeastern portions of the United States.

In shrubby meadows, gardens, and edged woodland habitats this spider builds a large circular web, that is horizontal and slightly sloped. The day is when this spider is active, and as their name suggests this species is commonly found in orchards.

Emerald green is the base color of this species, and they have silver, yellow, and orange blotched markings on their body. This spider has spindly legs, and their abdomens have an elongated shape. Males of this species have small abdomens, but longer legs.

Orchard orbweavers when being preyed on either run to the edge of their webbing, or drop to the ground. Mud daubers are these spiders’ most common predators, but they are also preyed on by birds.

The web of this spider is more vertical which helps in catching insects.

28. Bowl-and-doily Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Linyphiidae 
• Scientific Name: Frontinella pyramitela
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 4 mm (0.16 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The bowl and doily spider is unique because of the type of webbing it makes, which can help easily identify them in the wild. This spider’s web is made of two parts, which are the bowl section, and the doily.

The “doily” is a flat section above the “bowl” section, which is used to push insects further into their webbing. The “bowl” webbing is used to catch small insects, and this spider sits on the underside of it and pulls in prey that gets entangled.

Bowl and doily spiders are small arachnids and have dark brown coloring. White markings cover them, and they have spindly legs that are more yellowish. This spider is covered in short hairs. Both sexes look similar, but females have slightly larger abdomens. 

This species is active from the months of May until June and then becomes active again in September. They live in forests, temperate woodlands, and other areas with lots of low vegetation like shrubs. The web this species creates is usually made near other members, and it is not rare for them to live in large communal webbed areas.

Bowl and doily spiders feed on small insects like gnats, and tiny flies. Pheromones are used by female spiders of this species to attract mates, and males fight it out to get the best chance of breeding.

Other smaller spider species that live near them are this species’ most common threat in the wild.

29. Long-bodied Cellar Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Pholcidae 
• Scientific Name: Pholcus phalangioides
• Other Names: Skull spider, Daddy long-leg spider 
• Adult Size: 6 to 10 mm (0.23 to 3.9 inches) 
• Lifespan: 0.5 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The long-bodied cellar spider is one of the most common spiders in the United States. This species lives in homes, warehouses, garages, and other types of dark and secluded areas.

Long-bodied cellar spiders create messy webs and are active year-round if living indoors. When outdoors this spider’s activity peaks in the summer.

The legs of this spider are extremely long and thin, and their bodies are small and pill-shaped. They have tan coloring, with a gray marking on their carapace. This spider looks very fragile compared to other spiders, and their thin legs allow them to move across the stickiest of silks and go unnoticed.

While some consider these spiders a nuisance, they are very beneficial in getting rid of insects like roaches, flies, beetles, and other pests. They are even capable of taking out dangerous spiders like the black widow, and brown recluse due to their speedy long legs.

Long-bodied cellar spiders are harmless to humans, and their fangs are too small to pierce the skin.

30. Triangulate Cobweb Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Theridiidae 
• Scientific Name: Steatoda triangulosa
• Other Names: Triangulate bud spider, Triangulate Combfoot
• Adult Size: 3 to 6 mm (0.1 to 0.23 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 3 years
• Average Price Range: n/a

The triangulate cobweb spider is a member of the Theridiidae family, also known as the comb-footed, or tangle web spider family.

These species are known for the messy webs they build, and poor eyesight, and include members like the black widow. Triangulate cobweb spiders live across North America, and this widespread species is found in regions around the globe like Russia, Europe, and New Zealand.

Triangulate cobweb spiders have dark brown to purplish coloring. They have a cream zig-zag pattern that appears on their back, and light and dark brown bands on their legs. This spider has a round bulbous abdomen and dark carapace.

The webs of this spider are messy, and built in secluded areas like basements, dark corners, garages, and under outdoor spouts. This spider’s venom is not considered medically significant to humans but is used for feeding on small prey insects that get trapped in their web.

31. Common House Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Theridiidae 
• Scientific Name: Parasteatoda tepidariorum
• Other Names: American House Spider 
• Adult Size: 3 to 5 mm (0.11 to 0.19 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 7 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The common house spider is found in Louisiana and has a range spread over the United States. As its name suggests this species is not only common, but one of the spiders that live inside homes, and other buildings.

They cohabitate with humans, creating messy webs in secluded areas. The web placement of this spider is not random, but they make their homes in places with tons of insect traffic.

Small in size, the common house spider has coloring that ranges from light tan to nearly black. They have a bulbous abdomen and spindly legs. A dark mottled pattern covers their body, helpful for blending into their background.

Females can create up to 20 egg sacs in their lifetime, which hold between 150 to 200 eggs. Their egg sacs are round a papery. After hatching the spiderlings remain in their mothers web until dispersing. Despite the large amount of young they lay, most die off before maturing.

Common house spiders feed on roaches, grasshoppers, flies, and other insects that live in homes. Jumping spiders are this species’ main predator, and they leap at them to get into their web.

32. Rabbit Hutch Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Theridiidae 
• Scientific Name: Steatoda bipunctata
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 16 mm (0.75 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Rabbit hutch spiders get their name from where they are commonly found, which is in the cages of rabbits.

This spider lives near human structures, making its webs in places like basements, sheds, and other secluded places with lots of food. Rabbit cages are common areas where their webs are built since they have a reliable food source of fleas, and flies.

Dark brown in color, this spider has a large bulbous abdomen. They have dimples on their abdomen and a cream stripe that runs down the center of their back.

On their underside is a marking that looks like the infinity symbol. Females are larger, and lighter colored with a shiny appearance.

While this spider is related to the black widow this spider is not dangerous to humans. There have been no cases of envenomation, as their fangs are likely too small to pierce the skin.

Rabbit hutch spiders are also harmless to animals like rabbits, and can bring the animals that they live with peace since they get rid of annoying insects.

33. False Black Widow 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Theridiidae 
• Scientific Name: Steatoda grossa
• Other Names: brown house spider, cupboard spider 
• Adult Size: 10 to 14 mm (0.39 to 0.55 inches) 
• Lifespan: 2 to 6 years
• Average Price Range: n/a

The false black widow is often confused for the real black widow, as they look similar, and build the same types of webs.

This spider is found across the globe in regions like North America, Europe, and Australasia. They build messy webs and rely on vibrations to sense things since their eyesight is poor. 

False black widows are sexually dimorphic. Females have dark brown to purplish-black coloring.

They lack the red hourglass marking and have lighter markings on the top of their abdomen. Males have long cream legs, a small black abdomen, and a carapace.

False black widows are able to go months without feeding. Females in their lifetime lay between 1 to 3 eggs, containing up to 100 young. This spider hatches around a month after being laid, and live on their own once they hatch. 

False black widows have mild venom that may cause symptoms like pain fever, nausea, and muscle spasms. This species feeds on insects and other spiders like the black widow.

They only bite if provoked, and are not known to be aggressive.

34. Southern Black Widow 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Theridiidae
• Scientific Name: Latrodectus mactans
• Other Names: Shoe-button spider
• Adult Size: 8 to 13 mm (0.3 to 0.5 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 3 years
• Average Price Range: $20

The southern black widow is one of three Latrodectus species that live in Louisiana. This spider is active during the summer, and fall months.

They build messy webs in places like under outdoor furniture, underwater spouts, and in other secluded areas. Southern black widows are typically found in the southern states within the U.S.

This spider when mature is all black, and has a red hourglass marking under its abdomen. The hourglass is useful in identifying this species from other black widows, and the southern black widow has a complete hourglass. Males are small in size, but have longer legs, and may have red and white markings on them.

The southern black widow is considered the most venomous spider in Louisiana. Black widows have strong neurotoxic venom that causes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, sweating, and headaches.

Symptoms can last for a few days, or weeks. Bites to children and the elderly are more severe than to adults.

35. Northern Black Widow 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Latrodectus
• Scientific Name: Latrodectus variolus
• Other Names: Northern Widow
• Adult Size: 12.7 to 15.24 mm (0.5 to 0.6 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 3 years 
• Average Price Range: $20

The northern black widow is found mainly in the eastern United States. This species is active in summer and fall.

They are a nocturnal species, and at night hang upside down in their messy webs. Northern black widows may live in woodlands, near homes, and make their webs in secluded places.

This spider is all black, and unlike the southern black widow has a broken red hourglass on the bottom of its abdomen. This glossy black spider may have white, or reddish blotches on the back of their abdomen. This species like other black widows have a plump abdomen and long spindly legs.

Northern black widows are one of the few venomous species in Louisiana, and this spider’s venom contains the powerful neurotoxin alpha-latrotoxin. Death from this species is extremely rare, and they mainly use their venom to feed on things like woodlice, insects, and other spiders.

36. Brown Widow 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Theridiidae 
• Scientific Name: Latrodectus geometricus 
• Other Names: Brown button spider 
• Adult Size: 8 to 14 mm ( 0.3 to 0.5 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 3 years 
• Average Price Range: $20 

Brown widows are a spider that lives in Louisiana, and their range covers the southern half of the United States. This spider is believed to have evolved in Africa, and this species has populations in places such as North America, Japan, South Africa, Cyprus, and Australia.

In the state brown widows are active in the summer and fall months. They are nocturnal and hide in a secluded area during the day.

Unlike the black widow which they are a close relative to, this spider has tan coloring. They have a mottled tan pattern on their abdomen, with black and tan bands on their legs. Brown widows also have a reddish hourglass on the bottom of their abdomen.

The venom of the brown widow is considered medically significant to humans, but its venom is not as strong as the black widow. Like other similar species, this spider creates a messy web, used to catch insects like ants, mosquitoes, beetles, roaches, and other bugs.

37. Leaf-curling Sac Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Clubionidae
• Scientific Name: Clubiona abboti
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 6 to 10 mm (0.24 to 0.39 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a

Leaf curling sac spiders are a type of spider found in the United States. This species lives in areas with lots of vegetation, and make their home within plant life.

It is estimated there are around 49 species within this genus that live in the United States. Clubiona abboti is the species that lives in Louisiana, and other parts of the southern U.S.

This spider is tan to cream-colored, and they are covered in velvety hair. Their fangs are large, sometimes black in color. Leaf curling sac spiders have eight eyes, with two at the top and six at the bottom.

Leaf curling sac spiders are active from the spring to fall months. They get their name since they curl leaves using their silk.

The leaves they curl are used to lay their eggs, and they also die after giving birth. This terrestrial spider wanders around, looking for small insects to feed on.

38. Eastern Parsons Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Gnaphosidae 
• Scientific Name: Herpyllus ecclesiasticus
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 5 to 12.7 mm (0.2 to 0.5 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The eastern parson spider is a ground spider that primarily lives in the eastern United States. This spider does not build webs but wanders around.

They are active at night and use leaves, and other debris to hide during the day. Eastern parsons spiders are seen often during the fall when they look for a place to camp out during the winter.

This species is black, and covered in velvety hairs. They have reddish brown legs and a spinneret that looks like a tail at the end of their abdomen. Eastern parsons spiders have white markings on their round abdomen and carapace.

During the night this spider hunts for small insects and ambushes its prey. They use their venom to neutralize prey, but their bites are harmless to humans.

Eastern spiders are very fast, and bites may occur if they get trapped in bedding or under clothes. 

39. Woodlouse Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Dysderidae 
• Scientific Name: Dysdera crocata
• Other Names: Woodlouse hunter, sowbug killer 
• Adult Size: 9 to 3 mm (0.35 to 0.59 inches)
• Lifespan: 2 to 5 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The eastern United States is where the woodlouse spiders live, and they are one of many spiders found in Louisiana.

This species’ range is global, and it is believed they originated in the Mediterranean area. Woodlouse spiders live in areas that have woodlice and are active at night.

They create a silk sac to rest in during the day. Woodlouse spiders prefer dark and damp places and may hide under things like logs, rocks, and leaf litter.

Tan is the color of their round abdomen, and their legs and carapace are reddish orange. They have very large fangs, and unlike other spiders, they only have six eyes, grouped together in two. Woodlouse spiders are covered in faint hair, and adults are medium-sized.

While woodlice are a main part of this spider’s diet, they also feed on other invertebrates like centipedes, beetles, crickets, earwigs, and silverfish. The large fangs of this spider are used to pierce exoskeletons, but can also give a painful bite.

Bites from this spider can be painful, but their venom is not medically significant.

40. Broad-faced Sac Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Trachelidae 
• Scientific Name: Trachelas tranquillus
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 5 to 10 mm (0.19 to 0.39 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Broad-faced sac spiders live in warm and dry environments. They inhabit the eastern half of the United States and are seen mostly from the fall to winter months.

This spider is nocturnal and hides in a silk sac during the day. Broad-faced sac spiders sometimes go into buildings and find their way through window sills.

This species is named after its large carapace, which is very wide. They look similar to the woodlouse spider but have a darker red, almost black head. Their abdomens are tan, and their legs are reddish brown.

Broad-faced sac spiders have a painful bite, and since their fangs are so large the bite wound can sometimes cause an infection. This species feeds on dead, and decaying arthropods.

Their venom is not medically significant to humans. This species is a scavenger and is often found near the base of plants and on the sides of fences.

41. Ant-mimic Sac Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner
• Family: Corinnidae 
• Scientific Name: Falconina gracilis
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 4.6 to 8.9 mm (0.18 to 0.35 inches) 
• Lifespan: 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Falconina gracilis is a species that is native to South America, found in Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.

This spider was introduced to the United States and is active year-round. This species is one of the few ant mimic spiders that live in Louisiana, and their appearance is used to copy ants.

This spider has grayish-black coloring on its abdomen, with white markings. Their carapace is a dark reddish brown, and their legs are tan. This ant mimic spider is small, and their fangs are large. They look similar to the broad-faced sac spider but are darker.

Like other similar species, this spider uses its appearance to make others think it is an ant. They are nocturnal and are a wandering species. Ant mimic spiders feed on insect prey and are ambush predators.

42. Red-spotted Ant-mimic Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Corinnidae 
• Scientific Name: Castianeira descripta
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 13 mm (0.51 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The red-spotted ant mimic spider is found throughout the United States, including the state of Louisiana. This species does not live in a web but is a wandering spider.

They only use silk to make egg sacs or will create a silk sac to rest in. Red-spotted ant-mimic spiders sometimes make their way indoors. They live in a variety of habitats like backyards, woodlands, and parks.

The coloring of this spider is similar to the black widow, but the red marking is on the dorsal side. While sometimes confused for the black widow this spider has a body that resembles other sac spiders. Red-spotted ant mimic spiders are all black, have bulbous abdomens, and are covered in small hairs.

This species wanders around looking for food. It copies ants by walking slowly, and lifting their two front legs to mimic antennas.

They use their speed to ambush insects that let them get close. This spider is not considered venomous to humans, and if approached they will flee.

43. Long-palped Ant-mimic Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Corinnidae 
• Scientific Name: Castianeira longipalpa
• Other Names: Banded Sac Spider 
• Adult Size: 3 to 13 mm (0.11 to 0.51 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Eastern states like Louisiana are where the long-palped ant mimic spider lives.

This species, like other ant mimics, attempts to copy ants’ behavior and also uses their appearance to blend into ants. They walk very slowly with their front legs up to resemble antennas, and this behavior helps them get close to prey.

The long-palped ant mimic spider has a black base and yellow markings on their abdomen and carapace. They have a mottled pattern on their head and a wavy blotched pattern on their abdomen. This species has reddish coloring on the tip of their legs, as well as cream stripes on their limbs.

Long-palped ant mimic spiders are very fast, and use their speed to take out prey. This spider is harmless to humans, and bites only cause mild symptoms.

Under rocks, logs and other natural debris is where this spider is sometimes found.

44. Northern Yellow Sac Spider

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Cheiracanthiidae
• Scientific Name: Cheiracanthium mildei
• Other Names: Long-legged Sac Spider 
• Adult Size:  5 to 10 mm (0.19 to 0.39 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
• Average Price Range: n/a  

The northern yellow sac spiders live in Louisiana, and are found in places with lots of natural debris. This spider is nocturnal, and during the day they create a silk sac to rest in.

This species sometimes makes its way indoors and hides under dirty laundry or cardboard. Outdoor this spider may hide under leaf litter, rocks, logs, and other debris.

This species is yellowish, or tan-colored. They have dark chelicerae and are covered in small faint hair. This species lacks any distinguishing markings or patterns on them.

Northern yellow sac spiders’ eyes glow in the dark due to their tapetum lucidum. This species does not have good eyesight and walk with its front legs up to look for prey.

Bites from these species are common since they often find their way into homes. Females are more aggressive than males, and bite if provoked.

Northern yellow sac spiders feed on insects and are beneficial in agricultural fields and gardens since they eat pests. The venom of this spider is not dangerous and only causes mild symptoms.

45. Spitting Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Scytodidae 
• Scientific Name: Scytodes thoracica
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 6 to 18 mm (0.25 to 0.75 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1.5 to 4 years 

In Louisiana, the spitting spider is one of the few species that is able to spit a substance at its prey.

This spider spits a mix of liquid silk and venom, able to shoot accurately at a distance of up to 0.79 inches. Spitting spiders spit extremely quickly, shooting their venom at a speed of 1/700th of a second. 

The body and head of the spitting spider are very round. They have tan colorings, with dark markings appearing on them.

Spitting spiders have long thin legs, with their front being longer than the rest. This species uses its front legs to aim at the predators they are going to shoot and walks slowly when aiming.

Spitting spiders spit entangles their prey, trapping them in their silk. They hunt during the night, feeding on moths, insects, and other spiders.

This species is preyed on by animals like bats, shrews, toads, and birds.

46. Bold Jumping Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae 
• Scientific Name: Phidippus audax
• Other Names: Daring jumping spider 
• Adult Size: 6 to 19 mm (0.23 to 0.74 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 to $30

Bold jumping spiders are found throughout the United States. This species is one of the many types of Salticidae that live in Louisiana.

Bold jumping spiders live in open woodlands, gardens, fields, and other similar habitats. They are often found close to humans and spend their time moving around on vertical surfaces. Active during the day, jumping spiders build a retreat for them to rest in at night.

Bold jumping spiders have black coloring and bright green chelicerae. They are covered in white tufts of hair and have angular legs which help them jump.

Bold jumping spiders and other Phidippus members are the largest types of jumping spiders in Louisiana. Orange spots appear on their abdomen, which turns white with age.

Jumping spiders are beneficial in gardens, and agricultural fields since they feed on a variety of pests and insects. This species leaps at prey, stalking them until they get close.

Bold jumping spiders eat things like cotton leaf worms, grasshoppers, stink bugs, and locusts.

47. Regal Jumping Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae 
• Scientific Name: Phidippus regius
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 6 to 18 mm ( 0.23 to 0.70 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: $30 

Regal jumping spiders are found in the eastern United States, mainly in the southeastern region. This species lives in open woodlands, fields, and urban areas.

Regal jumping spiders are active mostly in the spring and summer months. When jumping about this spider attaches a silk thread to the surface it is standing on to prevent itself from falling to its death.

Regal jumping spiders are the largest jumping spider in their region. This species is sexually dimorphic. Males are all black and have white tufts of hair on them.

Females have orange, or gray coloring, with tannish hairs on them. They have three spots on their abdomen and look similar to the bold jumping spider.

Regal jumping spiders are active during the day and use their excellent eyesight to spot prey. Small insects are what this spider eats, and they ambush prey with their large leaps.

Bites from jumping spiders are rare, and harmless if they do occur. 

48. Zebra Jumping Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae
• Scientific Name: Salticus scenicus
• Other Names: Zebra Spider 
• Adult Size: 5 to 9 mm (0.19 to 0.35 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 to $30 

The zebra jumping spider lives in Louisiana and is also found around the globe in places like Europe, North Asia, and North America.

This spider spends its time on vertical surfaces like tree trunks, walls, fences, and large structures. Zebra jumping spiders are active during the day and create a silk retreat to rest in places like under rocks, and in leaf litter at night.

This spider is smaller and gets its name from the zebra-like patterns on its body. They have black and white coloring, with small white hairs covering them. Males and females look similar but males have slightly darker coloring.

Zebra jumping spiders like other Salticidae use a visual dance to mate, and males wave their arms to attract a female. They have excellent eyesight and have two larger front eyes that give them excellent binocular vision. Smaller eyes circle their head like a crown, giving them nearly a 360-degree range of vision.

Zebra jumping spiders feed on insects like mosquitoes, flies, and other arthropods. They pounce on their prey and are able to take out things up to 3 times larger than them.

They have a jumping velocity estimated at 2.1 to 2.6 feet per second and use their fast leaps to pounce on prey.

49. Tan Jumping Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae 
• Scientific Name: Platycryptus undatus
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 8.5 to 13 mm (0.33 to 0.51 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 to $30 

The tan jumping spider is a common species in the United States, mainly found in the eastern states. This spider spends its time on vertical surfaces like tree trunks, walls, and fences.

They use these surfaces to spot and find prey during the day. Tan jumping spiders leap around during the day, and at night they hide in hidden places like within the bark of trees.

This species gets its name from the tan coloring but they sometimes appear gray. They have small hairs covering them, and dark bands on their legs. A wavy undulating pattern appears on their abdomen, and their coloring and markings help them blend into the wooden surfaces they are commonly found on.

Tan jumping spiders and their eggs are preyed on animals like reptiles, mammals, birds, and other spiders. This spider, like other jumping spiders, stalks their prey like a cat.

They pounce on small insects, feeding on things like moths, crickets, and flies.

50. Golden Jumping Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae
• Scientific Name: Paraphidippus aurantius 
• Other Names: Emerald Jumping Spider 
• Adult Size: 3.04 mm (0.12 inches)
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 to $30 

The golden jumping spider lives in Louisiana and is mainly found in the southeastern United States. This spider’s range extends to Central America in Panama.

The golden jumping spider is active from the spring to fall months. They are diurnal and rest in silk sacs at night.

This spider is also called the emerald jumping spider since they have an iridescent emerald color that appears on them. Males are smaller in size and have darker coloring.

Females have orangish markings on their abdomen and are covered in tan hairs. The emerald coloring appears both on their abdomen, and carapace, and this spider has white spots on their abdomens.

Emerald jumping spiders are often seen in plant life and highly vegetated areas. They hunt on plants for small insects like gnats, flies, and beetles.

Jumping spiders are harmless, and sometimes watch humans with their excellent eyesight.

51. Putnam Jumping Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae 
• Scientific Name: Phidippus putnami 
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 5 to 13 mm (0.19 to 0.51 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

Gardens, parks, backyards, woodlands, and open fields are where the Putnam jumping spider lives. This species is native to the United States and lives in Louisiana.

Putnam jumping spiders build retreats at night in areas like under leaf litter, or in bark. Their day is spent hunting, but they may become inactive on cold or rainy days.

The Putnam jumping spider has tan, to black coloring. They are a very hairy species and have a white spotted pattern that covers them. Putnam jumping spiders are identifiable by the black tufts of hair that stick out the top of their head.

Like other jumping spiders the Putnam jumping spider is an ambush predator. They only use silk to travel, spin resting sacs, and build their egg sacs.

After pouncing on prey this spider injects them with venom to neutralize and break down their meal.

52. Twin-flagged Jumping Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidaein
• Scientific Name: Anasaitis canosa
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 5 to 6 mm (0.19 to 0.23 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: $15

Twin-flagged jumping spiders are found in Mexico, and across the southeastern United States. This spider spends its time on vertical surfaces, like exterior walls, and fences.

Twin-flagged jumping spiders lay their eggs in a silk nest, and defend their young until they hatch. Spring and early summer are when this spider is active.

Iridescent scales appear on this spider that are white, green, or pinkish. These markings look like flags, which is where their names come from. Twin-flagged jumping spiders have black coloring, with white or tan markings on them.

Ants are one of the main prey this spider feeds on. They stay at a safe distance, and follow them, waiting for the right moment to strike.

Twin-flagged jumping spiders attack prey from a different angle if they have large pincers or other ways of getting attacked. When hunting for prey like flies or beetles this spider’s attack is more direct.

53. Hentz Jumping Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae 
• Scientific Name: Hentzia palmarum
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 4.8 to 11 mm (0.19 to 0.47 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Hentz jumping spiders mainly live in North and South America and are a spider found in Louisiana.

This species spends its time amongst leaf litter and is active during the day. They are a docile species and use their jumps to move around plant life.

This spider, like others, is sexually dimorphic. Males have dark brown coloring and larger chelicera.

They have a white stripe that runs down their side, and their front legs are longer and darker than the rest of them. Female Hentz jumping spiders are cream to tan and are covered in a mottled pattern.

Hentz jumping spiders use their amazing vision and fast leaps to pounce on prey. This spider also uses its fast jumps to get away from predators.

Hentz jumping spiders spend their days wandering for food, and at night they rest in their silk sac.

54. Dimorphic Jumping Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae
• Scientific Name: Maevia inclemens
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 4.75 to 8 mm (0.187 to 0.31 inches) 
• Lifespan:  1 year
• Average Price Range: $20 to $30 

Dimorphic jumping spiders are native to North America. This spider lives in Louisiana and spends their time hunting around plant life during the day.

Buildings and large structures are also where this species is found. In the United States, they mainly inhabit the eastern, mid-western regions.

Female dimorphic jumping spiders have tan to gray coloring and a wavy pattern on their abdomen. Males come in two types of appearance, which is why they are called dimorphic jumping spiders. Males can have black coloring with cream legs or a grayish coloring with black markings on them.

This small spider lives is often found on trails, or in woodland areas. Small flying insects like flies and bees are what this species eats.

They use silk when jumping to prevent themselves from falling to their death.

55. Magnolia Green Jumping Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Salticidae 
• Scientific Name: Lyssomanes viridis 
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 5 to 8 mm (0.19 to 0.31 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The southeastern United States is where the magnolia green jumping spider is found.

This spider lives among plant life and prefers to live in warm and humid environments. Trees like the magnolia, oak, or maple are where this spider is often found.

Green in color, this specie’s vibrant hue helps them blend into vegetated environments. Magnolia green jumping spiders sometimes have green front eyes.

On the top of their head, this species has a white, and orangish crown coloring. Black spots appear on this spider’s abdomen, and their green coloring makes this spider look like it can glow in the dark.

Magnolia green jumpers mate in the spring months, and a clutch of eggs is between 25 to 70 eggs. This spider feeds on small insects like ants, aphids, and mites.

They have a shorter jumping distance than other jumping spiders and ambush prey from a shorter distance.

56. Green Lynx Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Oxyopidae 
• Scientific Name: Peucetia viridans
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 12 to 22 mm (0.47 to 0.86 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: $5

Green lynx spiders live in the southern United States and are the largest lynx spider in North America. In places with low shrubs, and other short vegetation are where this spider is common.

Summer and fall are when these spiders are active. They are diurnal, and at night they find a secluded area to rest.

Green lynx spiders look similar to the magnolia green jumping spider, but this species is much larger in size. This spider has vibrant green coloring, and a chevron pattern of tan or red on its back.

This species has thick dark hairs that cover its legs. The end of their abdomen is very pointy and they have long legs.

Lynx spiders get their name from their agile movements and hunting prowess which resembles a cat. Agricultural fields are a common place this spider is found, since they feed on things like moths, and larvae.

This spider is harmless to humans, and females are only aggressive when guarding their egg sacs.

57. Green Crab Spider

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Thomisidae 
• Scientific Name: Misumessus oblongus 
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 3 to 6.8 mm (0.12 to 0.27 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The green crab spider is one of many spiders in the Thomisidae family, which are called the crab spiders.

This species lives in the eastern United States, in woodlands, fields, gardens, backyards, and prairies. Green crab spiders are active from the months of May to August.

Crab spiders like this species have a body shape similar to a crab. They have vibrant green coloring and reddish markings that appear on their abdomen. This species’ body allows them to move forward, backward, and sideways like a crab.

Bees, butterflies, flies, and beetles are the types of insects these spiders eat. They are a sit-and-wait predator, ambushing prey that gets close to them.

Their green coloring helps them camouflage, and sneak up on prey. The two front legs of this crab spider allow them to grab onto their meal.

58. Goldenrod Crab Spiders 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Thomisidae 
• Scientific Name: Misumena vatia
• Other Names: Flower crab spider 
• Adult Size: 5 to 10 mm (0.20 to 0.39 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The goldenrod crab spider is found across North America and Europe. This spider lives in grasslands, gardens, and prairie-type habitats.

Plant life with white or yellow flowers is where this species prefers to live since their coloring allows them to blend in. Goldenrod crab spiders are active during the day and are seen most in the summer and fall months.

This spider, like others, is sexually dimorphic, with males having a much smaller abdomen than females and long legs. Females have a round bulbous abdomen.

This spider appears in white, or yellow coloring, and has reddish markings on the back of its abdomen. To help them better blend into their environment this spider can change colors to be either white or yellow, matching the flower they sit on.

Camouflage is used by this spider to ambush pollinator insects like moths, butterflies, or beetles that visit plants. Their two front legs are used to grab their meal, and they bite their prey to paralyze them with venom.

This small spider is harmless to humans, and their fangs are not typically strong enough to break the skin.

59. Ground Crab Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Thomisidae 
• Scientific Name: Xysticus sphericus 
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 3 to 9 mm ( 0.11 to 0.35 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

The ground crab spider lives under barks, leaves, and rocks on the ground.

They are common in woodland environments with lots of debris living on the floor. Unlike other spiders this species does not build webs to live in, or hunt, only to mate and lay eggs.

The ground crab spider is tan, to dark brown, and has a mottled pattern on it to help blend into wood or dirt. This species is stockier than other crab spider types.

They have eight eyes arranged in rows of two. Their bodies are crab-like and allow them to move in multiple directions.

As a sit-and-wait predator, the ground crab spider is very patient in waiting for prey to get close. They feed on things like mites, beetles, worms, and other types of small invertebrates.

Birds, lizards, and amphibians like frogs are these spiders’ main predators in the wild.

60. Running Crab Spider 

• Experience Level: Beginner 
• Family: Philodromidae 
• Scientific Name: Philodromus spp.
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 38 mm (1.5 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 year 
• Average Price Range: n/a

Running crab spiders are not a member of the Thomisidae crab family, but are a part of the Philodormidae family.

Running crab spiders are a wandering species, and live in woodland habitats. This spider spends its time on vegetation, and around plants.

While this spider is not considered a true crab spider, they have a crab-like body shape, since its front legs are sideways. Tan in color, they have a mottled pattern that covers them. Their coloring makes it hard for humans and prey to spot when on leaf litter, or on trees.

As their name suggests this spider is very speedy, and ambushes prey that gets close. They quickly chase down prey to inject them with venom.

They also use their speed to escape predators like birds, lizards, or other spiders.

61. American Nursery Web Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Pisauridae 
• Scientific Name: Pisaurina Mira
• Other Names: n/a 
• Adult Size: 15 mm (0.59 inches) 
• Lifespan: 2 years 
• Average Price Range: $10

American nursery web spiders are named after the nursery webbing they create for their young.

This species carries its egg sac around until it is ready to hatch. Nursery web spiders are found all across the United States and live in woodlands, grasslands, and other highly vegetated environments.

Tan in color, a dark wavy tan marking runs down this spider’s back. They are sometimes confused for wolf spiders, but the eyes of this spider are all the same size, unlike a wolf spider. Many tiny hairs cover this spider’s body, and they have nimble legs.

American nursery web spiders are active at night and use their eyesight to spot prey to feed on. They eat things like smaller spiders, millipedes, and insects they find.

Nursery web spiders are not dangerous to humans or pets, with venom only strong enough to paralyze their prey.

62. Six-spotted Fishing Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Pisauridae 
• Scientific Name: Dolomedes triton
• Other Names: Dock Spiders 
• Adult Size: 15 to 20 mm (0.59 to 0.7 inches) 
• Lifespan: 2 years 
• Average Price Range: $20  

Six-spotted fishing spiders live in woodlands, and other vegetated places next to water sources like ponds, lakes, or streams.

This spider, like others within the nursery web spider family, is able to walk on water. They are active at night and during the spring to fall months.

Six-spotted fishing spiders have tan coloring, with a white lined marking on their sides. The abdomen and carapace have a darker coloring than their legs. White spots appear on their abdomens in two rows, but their name comes from the six spots that appear on this spider’s underside.

Hunting for fishing spiders occurs both on land and in water. Small fish, tadpoles, aquatic insects, terrestrial insects, and other spiders are what this species eats. They are subject to predators like water birds, frogs, and larger fish.

63. Dark Fishing Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Pisauridae 
• Scientific Name: Dolomedes tenebrosus
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 6.8 to 25.4 mm (0.27 to 1 inch)
• Lifespan: 2 years
• Average Price Range: n/a

The dark fishing spider lives in woodland habitats near ponds, lakes, or other water sources. This species can be spotted in the eastern United States, and while a fishing spider it is not uncommon for this species to move inwards to deep wooded areas.

Dark fishing spiders are very large, and hairy. They have tan to grayish coloring, with dark bands on their legs. Their abdomen has a mottled pattern, and W-shaped markings on it. Their coloring helps the dark fishing spider blend into wooden, and dirt surfaces.

Despite their large size, this species like other fishing spiders are docile. They are nocturnal and emerge from their crevices to feed on small invertebrate prey.

Dark fishing spiders are eaten by small mammals, reptiles, and other larger spiders.

64. White-banded Fishing Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Pisauridae
• Scientific Name: Dolomedes albineus
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 18 to 23 mm (0.7 to 0.9 inches)
• Lifespan: 2 years
• Average Price Range: $30

The white-banded fishing spider is a Louisiana native and lives in wooded habitats near bodies of water.

The hairs of the fishing spider’s bodies, and legs that do not break the water’s surface tension allow these species to travel across water. They are even able to dive, and swim, which is why they live near lakes, streams, and ponds.

Compared to other fishing spiders this species is grayish to white in color. They have bands on their legs, and a mottled pattern covering them. This species is extremely hairy and has two rows of large eyes around the same size.

Fishing spiders feed on tadpoles, aquatic larvae, and insects they find. They do most of their hunting at night, and if seen they flee.

This spider ambushes prey, sneaking up on them when they are least expecting it.

65. Wolf Spider

• Experience Level: Intermediate
• Family: Lycosidae
• Scientific Name: Tigrosa annexa
• Other Names: n/a
• Adult Size: 10 to 18 mm (0.39 to 0.70 inches)
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
• Average Price Range: $6.99

Tigrosa annexa is found in the eastern United States, including Louisiana.

They are one of the many species of wolf spiders that live in America, and it is estimated there are over 2,300 species in total. This wolf spider is active year-round, and they are seen most in the spring months.

This wolf spider is the smallest in the tigrosa genus. They have tan coloring, with a pale yellow stripe that runs down their carapace. Dark marks also appear on the spider’s abdomen, and head.

This wolf spider lives in dry and sandy environments and grasslands. They are active at night, and prey on insects, and other invertebrates.

Wolf spiders have great eyesight and have two eyes on their face bigger than the rest, which give them excellent vision. Their eyes also glow in the dark when flashed with a light, and they have great night vision.

66. Rabid Wolf Spider 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Lycosidae 
• Scientific Name: Rabidosa rabida
• Other Names: Striped Wolf Spider 
• Adult Size: 13 to 21 mm (0.51 to 0.82 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The rabid wolf spider is native to North America. This spider lives in woodlands, fields, and in urban habitats.

Burrows are used by this spider to live, or they may hide under debris like rocks, or logs. Rabid wolf spiders are nocturnal and are nomadic species.

This spider has tan coloring, with dark stripes that run down its back. Rabid wolf spiders are medium-sized, with females being larger than males. They have eight eyes, in two rows, with the eyes on top being much larger.

Wolf spiders are named after their wolf-like hunting abilities. They are very quick and use their speed to pounce on prey.

When mating male wolf spiders use a dance to get a female’s attention. Spiderlings of wolf spiders stay on their mother’s abdomen until they are ready to go off into the wild.

67. Brown Recluse 

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Sicariidae 
• Scientific Name: Loxosceles reclusa
• Other Names: Violin spiders 
• Adult Size: 7 mm (0.27 inches) 
• Lifespan: 1 to 2 years 
• Average Price Range: n/a 

The brown recluse is one of Louisiana’s most venomous spiders. This species lives in woodlands, backyards, grasslands, deserts, and forests.

Brown recluses are nocturnal and sometimes make their way indoors. They hide under debris like rocks, rotting wood piles, and cardboard.

Tan in color, the brown recluse is small to medium-sized, with no patterns on them. This spider is most identifiable by the violin-shaped marking on their carapace. Other brown spiders are often confused for this species, but brown recluses have a very plain appearance.

This spider’s bite is necrotic and venomous to humans. They feed on soft-bodied insects like roaches, moths, and flies.

Brown recluse spiders are nocturnal, and do their hunting at night. Moist and dark locations are where they are found most, sometimes infesting basements and crawl spaces.

68. Pantropical Huntsman Spider

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Sparassidae 
• Scientific Name: Heteropoda venatoria
• Other Names: Huntsman spider, Cane Spider 
• Adult Size: 22 to 28 mm (0.86 to 1.1 inches) 
• Lifespan: 2.5 years 
• Average Price Range: $40 

The pantropical huntsman spider is one of the largest spiders in Louisiana and is believed to have come from Asia.

This spider lives in tropical environments with lots of vegetation. They are nocturnal, and their flat bodies allow this species to squeeze into the smallest of crevices, sometimes allowing them to get into homes.

Huntsman spiders are able to reach a leg span of up to 5 inches. They have brown coloring, and their long legs are this spider’s most identifying feature. Dark markings cover this spider’s body, with a large bold spot on its head. 

Huntsman spiders are one of the best hunters of all spiders. They are aggressive to the prey they eat, feeding on things like small spiders, insects, small amphibians, and other small animals they come across.

Being extremely quick this spider leaps at prey. Despite their size, they are not aggressive to humans, and not dangerous.

69. Ummidia Trapdoor Spider

• Experience Level: Intermediate  
• Family: Halonoproctidae 
• Scientific Name: Ummidia spp
• Other Names: Cork lid spider 
• Adult Size: (1 to 1.6 inches) 
• Lifespan: 5 to 20 years 
• Average Price Range: $30 

The trapdoor spider is a secretive spider that is found all over the United States. They create burrows to live in line with silk.

A cork lid is made out of dirt and silk and is closed off to keep their home hidden. The rakes on these spiders’ chelicerae help them dig their holes, and they prefer to live in sandy environments and hillsides. Silk around their burrow helps them feel the vibrations of incoming animals.

Trapdoor spiders have robust bodies and black glossy coloring. Their fangs are large, and their abdomens are round. They sometimes appear reddish brown, and small hairs cover them. This spider has eight eyes, grouped together on their face.

Trapdoor spiders are extremely quick, and use their speed to pounce at prey that gets near their burrows. These spiders’ large fangs can give a painful bite, but their venom is not deadly, usually only causing mild swelling.

Trapdoor spiders feed on spiders, insects,  small animals like frogs, rodents, baby birds, and other smaller animals.

70. Louisiana Tarantula

• Experience Level: Intermediate 
• Family: Theraphosidae 
• Scientific Name: Aphonopelma hentzi 
• Other Names: Arkansas choclate tarantula, Missouri tarantula, Texas Brown Tarantula 
• Adult Size: 119.3 to 149 mm (4.7 to 5.9 inches)  
• Lifespan: 10 to 30 year
• Average Price Range: $60

The Louisiana tarantula is the only tarantula species in the state. This spider is also called other names such as the Texas brown tarantula, representing the states they live in.

This spider builds burrows to live in, which is where most of its life is spent. Females use pheromones to attract a mate, and males are sometimes seen in the fall wandering around to find them.

This spider is the largest in the state and has brown coloring. They are very hairy, and their carapace has light brown coloring, unlike the dark hairs on the rest of their body.

After molting this spider’s color changes. This species is able to lay up to 1,000 eggs, which hatch in about 2 months. Spiders of this species have been known to live up to 40 years, but males tend to die only after a year.

Louisiana tarantulas are found in the southern United States. They inhabit forests, grasslands, and sandy upland habitats. Their burrows are where they hide, and at night they wait near its edge to pounce at prey.

This spider feeds on smaller animals and insects. Tarantulas hawks are the main predator of this species, and they paralyze this spider and use their bodies to feed their young.

The bite from this spider is only dangerous if allergic, but their large fangs are painful and may cause infection if not properly treated. This spider also has hairs that it can kick off to defend itself, and can cause irritation to eyes or skin.

FAQ

Wrapping up

Spiders are the most feared animal in the world, but in reality, most are harmless.

Keeping one as a pet is an easy way to get familiar with these arachnids, and see how they live their lives. The spiders in Louisiana are just a few types in America, as it is estimated there are over 3,500 types that live in the U.S.

While this list provided some of the most common types of spiders in Louisiana, there are many other species that reside in the state. Sometimes only a slight difference in a spider can mean it is a different species.

The residents of Louisiana are the most important factor in documenting the spiders that live within the state. If in the state, see if you can find these spiders near you, and possibly other types that are not known to live in the state.