Ohio has hundreds of spider species that live within the state. In the United States alone there are around 3,500 species, and around 50,000 different species are currently discovered.
This article will cover 50 spiders you can find in Ohio. From their lifestyle to appearances each species is unique. Some species of spiders also look very similar and are only told apart by extremely minor differences.
While spiders are extremely feared animals, most are harmless to humans. They greatly benefit the environments they live in, as they help control populations of pest insects like flies, mosquitoes, and moths. Spiders are also an important food source to animals like birds, lizards, and frogs.
Let’s look at 50 of the most common spiders in Ohio. With so many spider species it can be captivating to learn about these arachnids’ different lifestyles and appearances.
Here’s a look at the variety of spiders that live in Ohio that you may come across.
Table of Contents
Spiders in Ohio
1. 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 live across Ohio, and in most areas within the United States. This species is a very common spider from the Salticidae family, found across North America.
Grasslands, prairies, woodlands, farms, and residential areas are where this spider lives. Spring is when this species is seen the most, and they are active during the day.
Bold jumping spiders are nearly all black and are covered in white tufts of hair. These white tufts of hair appear on their legs and abdomen.
White spots appear on this spider’s abdomen, but these spots may also be yellow, or orange in color. Adults of this species have vibrant green or bluish iridescent chelicerae. Males and females look fairly similar, but females are slightly larger.
Like other jumping spiders this spider’s body and eyes give them excellent hunting abilities. Not only are their jumps extremely quick, but they are also able to leap over 4 times their body length.
Insects like flies, moths, mosquitoes, and beetles are what this spider feeds on. Birds are one of the main predators of this species, but they also get preyed on by larger spiders.
To humans this spider is harmless, and if threatened they attempt to flee before biting. When provoked or aggressively handled this spider may but, which only gives mild symptoms like swelling for a few days.
2. 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
The dimorphic jumping spider lives in the eastern, and mid-western regions of the United States, and some parts of Canada.
In urban areas moving about on vertical surfaces are areas this spider is often seen. They use surfaces like walls, fences, and rocks to get a better view of the area around them.
What makes this spider unique is that males have two forms they are able to appear in. Males can either have a black, or gray color.
The male with the black morph has a black abdomen and cephalothorax, with cream-colored legs. The other morph that a male appears in is gray and white, with a mottled pattern.
Each morph makes up around 50% of the male population. While they look different they are the same species and even do different dances to woo a female.
Females of this species are slightly larger than males and have a tan mottled pattern. The legs of this species are angular, designed for them to leap quickly.
Like other spiders, they feed on small insects and arthropods. The shape and location of this species’ eyes give them extremely keen vision, allowing them to stalk the small insects they feed on.
3. Emerald Jumping Spider
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Salticidae
- Scientific Name: Paraphidippus aurantius
- Other Names: Golden Jumping Spider
- Adult Size: 7 to 12 mm (0.27 to 0.47 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: $20 to $30
Emerald jumping spiders are a species found across the United States. Living in Ohio and other similar states, this spider is active most from spring to fall months.
They live in most environments and are regularly seen in urban areas. Along with living in the US, this spider also inhabits Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Emerald jumping spiders are a smaller species of jumping spiders and showcase a variety of colors. Black is a common color this spider comes in, but they also may have gray, or tan pigments. They have iridescent green scales on them, with white markings that appear on their body.
Emerald jumping spiders feed on small insects like flies, and crickets. They get their name from the emerald coloring that sometimes appears on their body.
As a jumping spider, it hunts during the day and uses its leaps to jump on prey or escape from predators. Emerald jumping spiders become inactive at night and create a silk nest to rest in.
Females also lay their eggs in silk nests, and breed in the fall.
4. 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
Zebra jumping spiders are a member of the Salticidae family you can find in Ohio. They are named after their black and white appearance, which looks similar to the pattern of a zebra.
This species is common in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Meadows, forests, gardens, and other vegetated places are where this spider lives. In residential areas on the sides of homes, fences, and window sills are placed you can see this species near your home.
Male and females of this species look relatively similar, and females are only slightly larger. Males have bolder coloring and smaller abdomens.
This spider has two large eyes in front of its face, and smaller eyes circling its head. Their vision is excellent and able to detect things with a nearly 360-degree view. Their eyesight helps them spot potential prey, and also accurately judge the distances it jumps.
Flies, mosquitoes, and other similar insects are what this spider feeds on. When spotting its prey this spider moves slowly so it can safely jump at it from the correct distance.
When moving about they also use a silk tether, to protect them if they fall when jumping. This spider is able to jump at a velocity of 0.64 to 0.79 m/s.
5. Sylvana Jumping Spider
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Salticidae
- Scientific Name: Colonus sylvanus
- Other Names: Woodland jumping spider
- Adult Size: 7.55 mm (0.29 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: $20 to $30
Sylvana jumping spider lives across the Eastern United States and is a species you may find in Ohio. This spider is seen most from spring to fall months.
In the early fall months, most of the specimens in the wild have matured, and mate in this season. Sylvana jumping spiders inhabit habitats like woodlands and gardens.
They are active during the day and hunt amongst the stones and leaf litter. Vegetation like bushes, and trees are where they are seen the most, looking for small insects to feed on.
The Sylvana jumping spider is in the genus of Colonus, which is identifiable by the pair of bulbous spines located on their ventral tibiae. Males have vibrant coloring, with an abdomen ranging from olive to tan in color.
They have red heads, with white, and black markings covering their bodies. Females are a light tan, with a mottled pattern on them.
Animals like flies, worms, and beetles are what this spider feeds on. They hunt during the day and use their venom to kill their prey.
This spider is harmless to humans, and its bite is only deadly to the small insects they feed on. When compared to other similar Salticidae spiders, this species moves slowly and tactfully when hunting.
6. Brilliant Jumping Spider
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Salticidae
- Scientific Name: Phidippus clarus
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 3 to 4 mm ( 0.11 to 0.15 inches)
- Lifespan: 6 months to 2 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
Native to North America, Brilliant jumping spiders are a species you may come across in Ohio, and other regions in the eastern United States. This species is active during the day and uses its excellent eyesight to look out for prey.
They are able to jump between 10 to 50 times their own length. Brilliant jumping spiders are common in fields and other vegetated habitats like gardens. Moving from plant to plant, they use their keen vision to regularly survey the area.
Brilliant jumping spiders are sexually dimorphic, with males and females showcasing different appearances. Males have red to orange abdomens, with a black marking going down the center of their abdomen.
Females also have red abdomens, which are larger in size. Males are darker, while females are covered in small tufts of tan fur.
The brilliant jumping spider spends its day hunting small insects. Fruit flies, aphids, and other small harmless insects are common food for this spider.
The Brilliant Jumping spider also feeds on other spiders but is wary to attack them. Feeding on pest insects that regularly damage plants are why this spider is beneficial in gardens, and agricultural fields. Like other jumping spiders they are harmless, and rarely bite.
7. Putnam’s 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
Putnam jumping spiders have a range spread across the United States.
This spider inhabits Ohio and is active mostly in the spring and late summer months. A widespread spider, this species lives in woodlands, grasslands, parks, gardens, and around urban areas.
This species is active during the day and spends its time leaping about. On windows, the sides of houses, and trees are where this spider wanders about. They prefer to move around on vertical surfaces since they use their eyesight to take in the surroundings around them.
This species is a medium-sized spider and has many small hairs covering its body. They have tan, black, brown, and orange coloring. Putnam Jumping spiders have black tufts of hair that stick out the side of their head.
Small insects like fruit flies are what the Putnam jumping spider feeds on. When hunting they pounce on their prey, and inject them with paralyzing venom.
For humans, a jumping spider’s bite is harmless unless allergic. If approached this species is more likely to flee, using its fast leaps to escape.
Putnam jumping spiders hide in a silk retreat at night, which is also where they lay their eggs.
8. Hentz Jumping Spider
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Salticidae
- Scientific Name: Hentzia palmarum
- Other Names: Common Hentz Spiders
- Adult Size: 4.8 to 11 mm (0.19 to 0.47 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
The Hentz jumping spider is a species that lives in Ohio and other states in the Eastern United States. This spider also inhabits other parts of North America, Cuba, Bermuda, and the Bahama Islands.
This spider is diurnal and creates a silk nest to rest in at night. Spring is when Hentz jumping spiders are spotted most, but they are active until the fall.
Male and female Hentz jumping spiders look different from each other. Males are easily identifiable by their large front legs, and pedipalps, which have a dark brown coloring.
Males have light brown coloring on the rest of their bodies, with two bold white stripes running down their bodies. Their legs are yellow and pale. Females have cream coloring, with a mottled pattern on them.
They have plain coloring and lack orange on face mask marking. Female Hentz jumpers also have rounder abdomens.
Being a small spider this species feeds on small insects like gnats, and aphids. They move around in leaf litter, looking for food during the day.
Animals like lizards, and birds are the most common predators faced by this spider.
9. White-jawed Jumping Spider
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Salticidae
- Scientific Name: Hentzia mitrata
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 4 to 6 mm (0.15 to 0.23 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
White-jawed jumping spiders inhabit Ohio and other similar regions within North America. This spider is common in many habitats like forests, fields, and in residential areas.
White-jawed jumping spiders are active during the day and leap around like other Salticidae. Their range primarily consists within the Eastern United States.
White-jawed jumping spiders have white or gray coloring, with a mottled pattern covering them. Males have smaller abdomens and long front legs. Male white-jawed jumpers have more vibrant coloring with orange on their head and abdomen.
The white-jawed jumping spider enjoys moving on vegetation and small plants. They feed on insects that eat plants and spend the majority of their time hunting.
White jawed jumping spiders use their great eyesight, and fast jumps to catch their prey. If a predator likes a lizard attacks this spider they have a chance to escape since the white-jawed jumping spider is able to leap up to 20 times their own body size.
10. 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
Tan jumping spiders are small brown spider that lives in Ohio, common in forest habitats.
They spend their time on vertical surfaces like the sides of trees, fences, or houses. Tan jumping spiders are active during the day, and their tan coloring helps them blend into their habitats.
Tan jumping spiders are a small and hairy species. Like others in their family, they have two large eyes and smaller ones that go around their head.
Their legs are designed for jumping, and let them leap far distances. Females look similar to males but are slightly larger. This spider also has a mottled pattern covering them.
Small insects like moths, flies, aphids, and other smaller spiders are what this species feeds on. They are active hunters, stalking and watching their prey like a cat.
Their eye placement and size give them sharp vision, with a near 360 degrees range of vision.
11. Arabesque Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Neoscona arabesca
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 5 to 7 mm (0.19 to 0.27 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Named after the swirl pattern that appears on this species’ abdomen, the arabesque orbweaver is a spider you may see in Ohio. This species is active from spring to fall but is seen more often in the warmer months of the year.
Arabesque orbweavers have a large range spread across the United States and other parts of North America. Fields, forests, on the sides of buildings, and gardens are some of the places this spider lives.
The Arabesque orbweaver is a smaller species that has tan, orange, brown, yellow, or grey coloring. Their abdomens are bulbous and have a swirled pattern on them. Their legs are spindly and covered in small hairs. Females are larger than males, while males have long legs.
The arabesque orbweaver feeds on insects like moths, flies, and gnats. This species is harmless to humans but uses its web and venom to take out its prey.
The Arabesque orbweavers live in vertical webs they build, using the support of vegetation. Their webs are circular and have a diameter ranging between 5.9 to 17.7 inches (15 to 45 cm).
12. Arrow-shaped Micrathena
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- 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
The arrow-shaped micrathena is a uniquely shaped spider, named after its arrow-like appearance. This spider has black spines that stick out the end of its abdomen, which look similar to the edge of an arrow.
They also have spikes that stick out the side of their body that are much smaller. Red and yellow are the colors of the species.
Woodlands, gardens, and yards are common places where this spider is found. Females create larger circular webs to live in, supported by the nearby vegetation.
Males spend their time wandering around, looking for a mate. The summer and fall months are when this spider is seen most often. Their breeding season is during the fall months, and females are able to lay up to 90 eggs.
Arrow-shaped orb weavers are harmless to humans, and they are also beneficial to keep around. This spider feeds primarily on flying insects like flies, mosquitoes, and gnats.
They play a major role in controlling the population of flying pest bugs, feeding off the ones that get caught in their web. This spider is also used as food by the birds that prey on it.
13. Barn Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Araneus cavaticus
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 6 to 16 mm (0.23 to 0.62 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
The barn orbweaver is a species native to North America. Barn spiders are commonly found in wooded man-made structures like barns, and sheds.
Barns spiders are also the species of Charlotte, from the classic book Charlotte’s Web. Like other similar orb-weaving species Barn spiders build orb webs to live in. They are a nocturnal species, and during the day hide in a secluded area until darkness covers the area.
Barn spiders are a medium-sized species, with yellow and tan coloring. This species has a round abdomen, with black and yellow legs. Small hairs cover this species’ body. Males and females look very similar, but female barn spiders have more robust bodies.
Barn spiders feed on insects like moths, mosquitos, and flies. They are one of the few spiders to take down their web in the daytime, consuming their silk to recycle it.
At night barn spiders build webs to catch prey and use their venomous bite to paralyze their victim. Vibrations are used to catch their prey, and this spider will shake its web to further trap its meal.
Barn spiders are harmless to humans but are aggressive to each other. If near they will attack each other and may feed on one another.
14. Bolas Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Mastophora cornigera
- Other Names: Angling spiders
- Adult Size: 2 to 15 mm (0.07 to 0.59 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
The bola spider is sometimes called a fishing spider, but this species is not able to walk on water. Bola spiders hunt like fishermen and use their silk to reel in prey.
Moths and moth flies are one of the main insects this species feeds on. They attach a blob at the end of a silk line that has pheromones that male moths are attracted to, and use this to feed on them. Bola spiders may hunt differently but are members of the orb-weaving family of Araneidae.
Bola spiders are a small species, with large rounded abdomens. Females are larger than males, and it is common for them to have bumps, or humps growing out of their abdomen. Bola spiders have tan, white, reddish-brown, or ivory coloring.
Active at night, in the summer months is when this species is most seen. This species looks similar to a bird dropping from afar, which is enough to keep some predators away. If they are disturbed bola spiders are also able to emit a pungent odor to ward off predators.
15. Cross Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Tetragnathidae
- 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
Cross spiders are native to Europe but inhabit Ohio and other regions in North America. They live in areas with plenty of vegetation like gardens, prairies, meadows, and woodland clearings.
This species lives in circular webs supported by the surrounding vegetation or attached to man-made structures. Summer and fall are this spider’s mating season, and when they are active the most.
Cross orb weavers get their name from the white cross pattern that appears on their abdomen. This cross marking is made up of white blotches, which are found all over their abdomen.
Cross orbweavers can be brown, light tan, orange, or grey colored. Dark bands cover the spider’s legs, as well as small thick hairs. Males look similar to females but have longer legs and smaller abdomen.
Cross orbweavers make their web up to 40 cm in diameter, which is useful in catching various flying insects for them to feed on. Cross spiders’ large size makes them able to easily overpower prey.
The venom this species produces is harmless to humans but useful in paralyzing its prey to easily feed on it. Wasps and birds are this spider’s most common predators.
16. Furrow Spider
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Larinioides cornutus
- Other Names: Furrow orb weaver
- Adult Size: 10 to 12 mm (0.39 to 0.47 inches
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Furrow orb weavers inhabit Ohio and other areas within North America. This spider is also found in parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa.
Moist vegetated habitats are where furrow spiders prefer to live. Wetlands, marshes, forests, and woodlands near freshwater are where this species is commonly found.
Webs are built in shaded areas, or on man-made structures like porches, barns, and the sides of houses. Females of this species live in large circular webs to live in, while males spend their time wandering for a mate.
Furrow spiders have gray, brown, olive, or dark brown coloring. This species gets its name from the zig-zag pattern on its abdomen that looks like a furrow. Male and female spiders look very similar, but males have slightly smaller abdomen.
Furrow orbweavers are active at night and will feed on flying insects that get caught in their web. This spider is active at night and makes a new web daily to fix the holes that insects caused the previous day.
17. Labyrinthine Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Metepeira labyrinthia
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 2.3 to 5.3 mm (0.09 to 0.2 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Spring to fall in Ohio is when you may come across the Labyrinthine orb weaver. This species builds large circular webs, with thin silk and a tight pattern.
Parts of their webs are messy with debris like leaves or twigs for them to hide in. Labyrinthine Orbweavers live in woodland and open grassland habitats. Their webs may hard to spot since they are low to the ground, and in areas with lots of plant life.
This orb weaver has brown, white, black, or gray coloring. Small hairs cover this species’ body, and they have dark bands on their legs. Labyrinthine orb weavers have a thick marking that runs down their abdomen similar to the furrow orbweaver.
This spider feeds on small insects like flies that get trapped in its web. Vibrations are used by this species to know when something gets caught in their web.
They wrap up their prey with silk and inject them with venom to kill them.
18. Marbled Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Tetragnathidae
- 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
A common spider in Ohio, the Marbled orb weaver is a species named after the pattern that appears on its abdomen. This spider has vibrant colors, with yellow, brown, or cream coloring.
The marbled pattern that appears on their abdomen is usually black, orange, or brown colored. Dark bands run can be seen on this spider’s legs. Males are much smaller than females and are sometimes spotted in the same web as their mate.
Females are the creators of the webs this spider lives in. Their webs are made daily and have a circular shape similar to other orbweaver species. Males do not build webs and spend their time wandering around looking for a mate.
Moist vegetated habitats like marshes and woodlands are places this spider inhabits. They are common near freshwater sources like ponds, rivers, and lakes.
Moist habitats are required since they drink the water droplets that get caught in their web. Summer and fall are when the marbled orb weaver is most active.
19. Shamrock Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Araneus trifolium
- Other Names: Shamrock orbweaver
- Adult Size: 19 mm (0.74 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Shamrock spiders live all across the US and Canada, inhabiting states like Ohio. This spider is one of the larger orb weaver species.
They have large round abdomens and spindly legs. Shamrock orbweavers come in a variety of colors like white, red, orange, gray, and purple. This spider has small hairs that cover its body, and dark bands on their legs.
Shamrock spiders live in habitats like gardens, marshes, woodlands, and grasslands. They prefer to live in moist areas, next to fresh water like a lake or pond.
This spider is most active in the summer and fall months. Shamrock orbweavers breed in the warm months and their eggs overwinter until the next spring to hatch.
Females of this species build large webs to live in, while males spend their time wandering for a mate. The web of a shamrock orbweaver is capable of being built up to 60 cm.
Their webs catch insects like moths, flies, and wasps for them to feed on.
20. Trashline Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Cyclosa turbinata
- Other Names: Humped Trashline Orbweaver
- 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 areas with low-lying vegetation in Ohio are where the trashline orbweaver lives. Gardens, parks, meadows, fields, and backyards are some of the other places this spider is found.
Native to North America, this species builds orb-shaped webs to live in. They get their name from the line of debris that they put down at the center of their web. The debris helps this small species camouflage it, and its eggs for predators.
Trashline orb weavers have tan, gray, white, or red coloring. They have a mottled pattern covering them and can be seen spotted tucked in the center of their web.
When born these spiders are extremely small, and travel by ballooning. Spring to early fall is when you are most likely to come across this spider.
The webs this spider builds are small but help catch its food. Moths, midges, beetles, and other bugs that get caught in their web are what this spider eats.
If disturbed by a predator trashline orbweavers shake their web to disorient their prey. Near the ground supported by low vegetation like grass or shrubs are where their webs are built.
21. Triangle Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Verrucosa arenata
- Other Names: Arrowhead spider
- Adult Size: 9.5 mm (0.37inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Triangle orbweavers are named after their abdomens, which are shaped like a triangle. This species lives in woodland habitats and creates circular webs to live in.
Triangle orbweavers are most active in the summer and fall months. Females create orb-shaped webs to live in, but males do not create these webs. Male triangle spiders spend their time looking for a mate and are rarely seen.
Only females have a triangle-shaped abdomen and marking on them. Black, brown, white, and orange-red are some of the colors this species appears in. Dark bands cover this spider’s legs, as well as a mottled pattern on its body.
The web this spider creates leaves little open space in it, making it more efficient at catching small insects. Flies, gnats, and mosquitoes are common bugs that get caught in this species’ webs.
They use their venom to neutralize prey, but their bites are harmless to humans.
22. 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
The spined micrathena is also called the castle back orbweaver, due to its uniquely shaped abdomen. Unlike most spiders, this species has large black spikes that protrude from its body, and an oversized abdomen compared to its head.
Females’ spined micrathena are much larger than males and have rounder bodies. This species has white coloring white black, yellow, or orange markings on its body.
Summer and fall are when this spider is seen most often. Females create larger orb-shaped webs to live in. Woodland and forested habitats are where they live, preferably with ample moisture. Ponds, lakes, and other small bodies of water are found nearby where this species lives.
Spined micrathena are active during the day and use this time to build their web. Males only use their silk for mating or travel. Predators like birds and wasps are what feed on this species the most, but their spines are useful in warding off enemies.
23. Tuft-legged Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Mangora placida
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 5 to 7 mm ( 0.19 to 0.27 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Having very hairy legs is what gives Mangora placida its common name, tufted leg orbweaver. This spider’s long thick hairs on its legs are not just for looks but are helpful in navigating its web safely.
The web this species makes uses lace-like silk and leaves very few gaps making it hard to navigate. Smaller insects flying bugs are more easily caught in this spider’s web design.
Tuft-legged orb weavers have brown coloring with a mottled pattern covering them. They are a small species and can be easily overlooked due to their size.
Plants like small trees and shrubs are where this species makes its home. Their color makes it easy for them to camouflage in tree bark or dead leaves.
Small insects abundant around plant life like gnats are what the tuft-legged orbweaver primarily feeds on.
24. Long-jawed Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Beginner
- Family: Tetragnathidae
- Scientific Name: Tetragnatha versicolor
- Other Names: Stretch spiders
- Adult Size: 4.8 to 11 mm (0.19 to 0.47 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Long-jawed orb weavers live in Ohio and are found across North America. This spider lives in habitats such as wetlands, grasslands, and woodland areas.
Places with high vegetation are preferred by these spiders. Spring and summer months are when this species is most active. Long-jawed orbweavers are often found near freshwater but stay in the dryer area.
A very sleek spider, long-jawed orbweavers get their name from their elongated fangs. Gray, brown, orange, or cream are common colors these spiders appear in, and they have a mottled pattern covering them.
Small flying insects and other prey that gets caught in their web are what long-jawed orbweavers eat. The night is when this spider is most active, which is helpful in letting them not be seen by predators like birds, small mammals, lizards, and larger spiders.
Since this spider is so light it is able to hide on weak vegetation, in places where most predators can’t reach.
25. 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
Orchard orbweavers live across the Eastern United States and are a species you may come across in Ohio.
Habitats such as forests, fields, marshes, and other highly vegetated areas next to water sources are where this spider lives. Female orchard orbweavers create large circular webs to live in and rely on their vibrations to sense the world around them.
A color species, this spider has a greenish coloring, with yellow, black, red, and orange markings on them. Their abdomens are elongated, and their legs are spindly.
Males orchard orbweavers are much smaller bodies than females but have long legs. In the mating season, you may see a male and female cohabit on a web for a short period. Eggs are continually made until the winter comes, which then hatch in spring.
Small insects that get caught in this spider’s web are what orchard orbweavers eat. Flies, leafhoppers, and butterflies are a few common meals for this spider.
Summer and spring are when the orchard orbweaver is most active, with orchards being an area this spider is regularly found.
26. 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
Banded garden spiders are a large species, named after the bands that cover their body. Yellow, black, and silver are common colors in this species appear in.
The legs of the banded garden spider also have black bands that appear on their body and are long. Their abdomen is bulbous, with an oval shape. Males are much smaller than females.
Large orbed webs are created by the females of this species to live in, with males sometimes being spotted in a mate’s web. Banded Garden spiders are common in the summer and fall months in Ohio, but also have a range stretching across the United States.
When sitting in its web this spider is faced down, with their legs in the shape of an X. Insects that get caught in their web-like butterflies, and wasps are what this spider feeds on.
Highly vegetated areas are where this spider can be found. Banded garden spiders are not dangerous, but can be useful in taking out pest populations in your backyard.
27. 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
Black and yellow garden spiders get their name from their bold coloring. This spider builds larger webs to live in, with a circular shape.
Down the center of their web is a zig-zag pattern, which is why some also call them zipper spiders. This zig-zag pattern is called a stabilimenta and may aid in helping create a strong web.
Black and yellow garden spiders are sexually dimorphic. Females are much larger than males and are sometimes seen sitting in the center of the web in an X shape. This species is one of the largest species of Orbweaver in Ohio, which is why it is able to be active mostly during the day.
Like other spiders, insects make up the majority of this spider’s diet. Their web is used to catch the unsuspecting insects that pass, and are made up to 2 feet in diameter.
Birds and wasps are the main predators black and yellow garden spiders face.
28. Featherlegged Orbweaver
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Uloboridae
- Scientific Name: Uloborus glomosus
- 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
Featherlegged Orbweavers are found in North America and are a species you may come across in Ohio.
This spider lives in small webs, supported by vegetation. Their webs are near the ground, helped up by vegetation like grass and shrubs.
The silk this spider uses is not sticky but is made to enable prey. Like some species of orb-weaver, this spider may build a zig-zag pattern running down the center of its web.
This spider is known as the feather-legged orb-weaver due to the large tufts of hair that appear on its legs. This species has a tan to orange coloring, and are a small species.
The webs of the feather-legged orbweaver are extremely thin and are used to catch small insects like flies and gnats. As a member of the Uloboridae family, this spider is one of the few species that does not possess any venom.
They use silk to wrap their prey and feed on their food, not relying on venom.
29. Eastern Parson 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
A ground species found in the Eastern United States, the Eastern parson’s spider is a common species in Ohio. This spider is active at night, and during the day hides under debris like logs, rocks, and other covers.
Houses and other buildings are common places this spider is found, as they wander around at night looking for food. During the day a silk retreat is made by this spider to rest in until night.
Eastern parsons are small to medium-sized spiders. They have dark brown, and black coloring, with white markings that run down the center of the back of their body. A very hairy species, the fur of the Eastern Parososn spiders has a velvety texture.
Small insects like roaches, beetles, and even other spiders are what this species eats. They have venom that is useful in neutralizing their prey, but bites from this spider are harmless to humans.
Spring to fall is when the eastern parson’s spider is active most in Ohio.
30. 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
The long-palped ant mimic spider is a species in Ohio and can be found across North America.
This species is known to mimic ants by walking slowly, with their two front legs in the air like antennae. Long-palped ants mimic spiders to prey on ants, but also mimic them to keep them from being attacked.
Long-palped ant mimic spiders have black coloring on their abdomen, cephalothorax, and parts of their legs. Long-palped ant mimics are covered with white or cream markings and have a brown shade on the tips of feet.
Some of the habitats this spider lives in include gardens, forests, urban areas, and grasslands. Like a sac spider, this species will build a retreat out of its web to rest.
Spring and summer are when this spider is seen the most. On the ground by leaf litter, and rocks is where to spot this species.
31. 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 are a common species in Ohio and are found in dry, and warm habitats.
This species is active mostly in the summer and fall and is a nocturnal species. During the day this spider creates a silk sac to rest in, usually found under debris like rocks, logs, and foliage.
Broad-faced sac spiders have larger heads with black coloring. Their abdomens are tan, and their legs have a reddish color.
This species is medium-sized, with large fangs. Male and female broad-faced sac spiders look similar, but females are slightly larger.
Broad-faced sac spiders feed on small insects like pill bugs, roaches, and other spiders. They are scavengers, also eating dead animals they find.
A bite from this spider is painful because of its large fangs, with symptoms like swelling, redness, and mild nausea. Bites can occur at night when this species sometimes makes its way into homes looking for food.
32. Yellow Sac Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Clubionidae
- Scientific Name: Cheiracanthium mildei
- Other Names: Northern Yellow Sac Spider
- Adult Size: 5 to 10 mm (0.19 to 0.39 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
Yellow sac spiders are native to North America and are a spider you may find in Ohio. Spring and summer are when this spider is active the most.
They live in areas like forests, urban areas, grasslands, and other habitats. This spider is active at night, and during the day hides under debris like rocks, boards, logs, and other natural litter. This species is a type of sac spider, which is known for building a tent-like treat to rest in.
Northern yellow sac spiders have yellow or cream coloring. They have long legs and a rounded abdomen. The fangs of this species are large and black. This spider is not deadly, but has venom that is necrotic, and may cause other mild symptoms.
Yellow sac spiders eat insects that they hunt at night. This species feeds on insects that it finds in vegetated habitats like gardens. Yellow sac spiders make their way into homes often and do so when the temperature starts to get cold.
33. 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
Inhabiting most of the Eastern United States, the woodlouse spider is a species common in Ohio. This species is nocturnal and hides during the day.
They create a silk tent to rest in and are found under rocks or logs. This spider primarily lives in places common with woodlice. Dark moist areas are where they live often.
Woodlouse spiders have large red heads, with a tan abdomen. Their fangs are extremely large, as they are used to pierce through the exoskeleton of animals like pill bugs. Males and females look relatively similar but can be told apart by their size since females are larger.
Woodlice make up a larger portion of this species’ diet since they live in similar places as them. They also eat animals like other spiders and centipedes. Woodlouse spiders will eat anything small enough they come across, and do not have a preference for woodlice.
34. Golden Rod Crab Spider
- 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
Goldenrod crab spiders have a large range spread across North America but are also common in other areas of the world like Europe. This spider lives on flowers, like goldenrod or daisies.
Meadows and grasslands are common areas in which these species live. Summer and fall are when this spider is most active. Females spend their life living on a flower, while males will wander and look for a mate.
Goldenrod crab spiders have a crab-like appearance, with females having larger abdomens. Yellow and white are the two colors this spider comes in. They are able to change their shade depending on the flower they are sitting on, to better blend into their habitat.
Pollinating insects that get near flowers are what this spider eats. Flies, wasps, bees, and butterflies are just a few things they eat. When blending into its habitat this spider will grab prey that gets close with its two strong front claws.
35. White-banded Crab Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Thomisidae
- Scientific Name: Misumenoides formosipes
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 3 to 11 mm (0.11 to 0.43 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
White-banded crab spiders are a widespread spider in North America, and in Ohio. This spider is named after the thick white band marking that appears on its head.
The body of this spider is crab-like, and females have larger rounded abdomens. The front legs of this spider are strong and have crab pincers to help grab onto prey.
The white-banded crab spider is a diurnal species and lives on flowering plant species. Females choose a flower to sit on, while males wander around looking for a mate. Habitats like meadows, grasslands, and gardens are where these spiders are.
When living on a flower this spider will feed on insects that pass by. They camouflage well with their yellow or white coloring and are able to change their shade to hide better.
Butterflies, flies, and wasps are some of the things they eat.
36. 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: 1 to 3 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
Long-bodied cellar spiders are one of the most abundant spiders in the United States and live across Ohio.
This species lives in a variety of habitats like forests, caves, and urban areas. They create loose webs to live in, sometimes in a colony with others of the same species. The warm months of the year are when this spider is active the most.
Long-bodied cellar spiders are also called daddy long-leg spiders due to their long thin legs. They have a cream coloring, with a small pill-shaped abdomen. The head of the long-bodied cellar spider is small, and its fangs are even too small to pierce human skin.
Insects that get trapped in their open webs are what this spider feeds on. They wrap prey up using their silk and fast long legs. When their prey is wrapped they inject them with venom to neutralize them and feed on them.
37. Bowl and Doily Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Araneidae
- Scientific Name: Frontinella pyramitela
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 5 to 9 mm (0.19 to 0.35 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 year
- Average Price Range: n/a
Bowl and doily spiders live in Ohio and are named after their unique web shape. This spider has a bowl, a doily section of its web.
The bowl part is where the spider sits and waits to pull prey into its web. The doily is a flat section of the web above the doily, used to push prey into the trap.
Bowl and doily spiders are small species, with brown coloring and white markings in them. Their webs are their most identifiable trait, and you may sometimes see multiple spiders of the snake species living together.
Bowl and doily spiders feed on small insects that get caught in their web. They wait on the underside of the bowl section and inject their prey with venom to neutralize them.
38. 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
Southern Black widows are a dangerous spider in Ohio and can be found in the warm summer months. This species creates messy cobwebs to live in and is active at night. In flower pots, near wooded debris, under cars, and around other secluded areas where this spider builds its web.
Southern Black widows have a jet-black color and a red hourglass on their abdomen. Only females have this hourglass marking, and this species has a complete hourglass, unlike its northern relative.
Southern black widows feed on insects such as flies, ants, ants, beetles, other spiders, and wasps. This species has poor eyesight and uses vibrations from its web to navigate.
Southern black widows have powerful venom which is capable of killing humans. Symptoms like swelling, nausea, and fever are common with bites, but anti-venom makes deaths rare.
39. Tiger Wolf Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Lycosidae
- Scientific Name: Tigrosa helluo
- Other Names: Woodland Giant Wolf Spider, Wetland Giant Wolf Spider
- Adult Size: 13 to 21 mm (0.511 to 0.82 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 4 years
- Average Price Range: $20 to $40
Tiger wolf spiders inhabit Ohio, in woodlands, forest, and desert habitats.
They are common in urban areas and can be found in a variety of places since they wander around. Tiger wolf spiders are active at night, and during the day hide in secluded areas.
A large species in Ohio, this species is named after the orangish markings that appear on its body like a tiger. They have tan coloring, with long legs and robust bodies. Females are the larger sex of this species.
Tiger wolf spiders eat insects on the ground, larvae, ants, and other small animals they come across. Birds, frogs, and rodents are what feed on this species the most.
40. Thin-legged Wolf Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Lycosidae
- Scientific Name: Pardosa milvina
- Other Names: Shore Spider
- Adult Size: 4.7 to 6.2 mm (0.18 to 0.24 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 2 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
The thin-legged wolf spider lives in the eastern United States, found in states like Ohio.
This species lives near rivers or other moist vegetated habitats. This spider is active year-round and inhabits areas with plenty of vegetation so it can hide from its predators.
Thin-legged wolf spiders are a small species of Lycosidae, with tan coloring. They have a mottled pattern of dark markings that cover their body, which helps them camouflage into their terrain. Females are slightly larger than males and are sometimes seen carrying around their egg-sacs in their mouths.
Thin-legged wolf spiders feed on insects like small beetles and roaches. They are preyed on by larger spiders, large ground beetles, and birds that spot them.
41. 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
Rabid wolf spiders are native to North America and can be found in Ohio. This species lives in wooded areas with plenty of debris.
Rabid wolf spiders are nocturnal, and during the day they rest in a burrow, or in a different secluded area. Woodlands, grasslands, and urban areas are a few habitats where you can find this medium-sized species.
Rabid wolf spiders are one of the smallest of Lycosidae and have tan coloring. They have dark bold stripes that run down their back, and fur that covers their body.
Wolf spiders like the rabid wolf spider are active at night and spend this time hunting. They feed on animals like roaches, beetles, and other spiders. Birds, lizards, and rodents are this species’ main predators.
42. Carolina Wolf Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Lycosidae
- Scientific Name: Hogna carolinensis
- Other Names: Giant Wolf Spider
- Adult Size: 19 to 25 mm (0.7 to 0.98 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 4 years
- Average Price Range: $45
The Carolina wolf spider is one of the largest spiders that live in Ohio. They are common in moist woodland habitats that are next to a source of water.
The night is when this species is active, spending most of this time hunting. Wolf spiders are named after their wolf-like hunting ability.
Wolf spiders like this species are members of the Lycosidae family, and the Carolina wolf spider is the largest of them all. This spider is dark brown and hairy.
They have a robust body and a mottled pattern on their underside. The coloring and pattern of the Carolina wolf spiders make it easy for them to camouflage, and hide from their prey.
Being so big if bitten by this species it may be painful, but their venom is not deadly. Carolina wolf spiders feed on animals like roaches, small lizards, small frogs, other spiders, and other small insects.
43. Common Fishing Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Pisauridae
- Scientific Name: Dolomedes tenebrosus
- Other Names: Dark Fishing Spiders
- Adult Size: 6.8 to 25.4 mm (0.27 to 1 inch)
- Lifespan: 2 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
Common fishing spiders are large species that inhabit a variety of areas in Ohio. This spider lives in wooded and forested habitats and is often confused for a wolf spider because of its size. Areas with an abundance of trees are where the spider prefers to live.
A very large species, this spider has dark reddish-brown, to light tan. They are covered with a dark mottled pattern. They have W markings on them.
Their size and habitats are what can help identify the common fishing spider. Like other similar species, this species is able to walk on water.
Walking on water helps escape predators, and gives larger options for prey. The hairs of this species are hydrophobic and extremely fine.
Animals like water bugs, roaches, small fish, and tadpoles are what this spider eats. They are most active in the months from spring to fall.
Common fishing spiders may bite if they feel in danger but fleeing is also an option for them. Bites from this spider are harmless and are similar to the sting of a bee.
44. Six-spotted Fishing Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Pisauridae
- Scientific Name: Dolomedes triton
- Other Names: Dock Spiders
- Adult Size: 15 to 60 mm (0.59 to 2.3 inches)
- Lifespan: 2 years
- Average Price Range: $20
Six-spotted fishing spiders inhabit Ohio and are a very common species in the United States. East of the Rocky Mountains is where you will see this species most often.
Wetlands and other semi-aquatic habitats are where this spider lives. Slow-moving waters such as ponds are preferred by this species. Fishing spiders like this species are known for their ability to walk on water since their legs put very little pressure on the water’s surface.
Six-spotted fishing spiders are named after the six spots that appear on the bottom of their cephalothorax. They have brown coloring with white lines that run along the sides of their body and light-colored spots that appear on their abdomen. Females six-spotted fishing spiders are slightly larger than males and have sleek bodies.
Water is used by fishing spiders to hunt, but also to escape predators. Six-spotted fishing spiders are often found near rocks, shore, and vegetation near the water.
Tadpoles, beetles, roaches, and other insects are some of the animals this spider eats. The night is when this spider is active, using its quick movements and keen vision to find prey.
45. 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 a widespread species in the US and can be found in Ohio. This spider is one of the most common in its range.
Their name stems from the female’s care for its egg sac. While active from spring to fall, breeding for this species occurs in June or July.
When a female lays her eggs she builds a sac and carries it around in her jaws. Before the eggs hatch the mother attaches the eggs to a plant, where they can safely hatch.
The American nursery web spider is a medium-sized spider, with a brown or orangish color. This spider has a thin body, with a mottled pattern covering them.
A dark mottled stripe runs down the center of their back. The eyes of this species are in two rows of four on their face, which can help identify this species from others.
American nursery web spiders are active hunters like wolf spiders and wander around for insects to feed on. The night is when they are most active, using their excellent vision to spot prey.
Being a member of the Pisauridae family, this species is able to walk on water. Lizards, birds, and larger spiders are the most common predators of this species.
46. 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
- Average Price Range: $30
Spitting spiders are one of the few spiders in North America that is able to spit their venom. Venom and liquid silk are what this spider spits at its prey, able to shoot accurately at distances between 10 to 20 mm (0.39 to 0.78 inches).
The spit and venom this spider spits will come out extremely fast, happening at around 1/700th of a second. Spitting spiders are mostly active at night, and spend their time wandering for food.
Spitting spiders have a tan or cream coloring, with a rounded head and abdomen. They have dark brown, or black markings that cover their body. Dark bands also appear on this spider’s thin legs.
The front legs of this species are longer than the rest and are used to aim their spit. Unlike other spiders spitting spiders only have 6 eyes, which are grouped in pairs of two on their face.
Flies, silverfish, and mosquitos are the most common prey this spider feeds on. The substance spit by this spider entangles its prey in a mess of sticky silk and venom. They are also able to hunt other spiders like Salaticdae successfully, taking them out from a distance.
47. 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 a species of recluse spider that lives in Ohio. This species is one of the most venomous spiders that live in the United States.
Along with being found in Ohio, this species is also native to 15 other states. In Ohio, the brown recluse inhabits the southwestern regions of the state. Spring to fall is when this spider is most active, usually seen in the warmer months of the year.
As its name suggests this species is mostly brown, with a tannish-grey abdomen. Other spiders are often confused with this infamous species.
The brown recluse can be identified by the dark violin marking on the spider’s cephalothorax. Other recluse spiders also have this mark, but it is more prominent in this species.
Forrest and wooded areas are where the brown recluse is seen most often. They are active at night and find a secluded area to rest during the day. Under woodpiles, leaf litter, and cardboard are common places this species likes to hide.
Brown recluse spiders may find their way into houses, looking for food and shelter. Insects are what this spider feeds on, and most of their night is spent hunting.
The bite from the brown recluse and other recluse spiders in Ohio are more dangerous than other spiders. Their venom is considered to be one of the strongest in the United States and has necrotic properties.
While bites from these spiders are not usually deadly, their bite causes various symptoms. Medical treatment is recommended if bitten, and no antivenom has been created as of yet.
48. Mediterranean Recluse
- Experience Level: Advanced
- Family: Sicariidae
- Scientific Name: Loxosceles rufescens
- Other Names: Mediterranean Fiddle-Back Spider
- Adult Size: 7 to 7.5 mm (0.27 to 0.29 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 3 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
The Mediterranean Recluse is an invasive species found in Ohio and other parts of the United States. Originally this species is native to the Mediterranean region within western Asia.
This spider is extremely invasive and has traveled through a trade done globally. This species prefers dry and warm climates. They prefer to live in dark and small areas such as caves, and crevices.
The Mediterranean recluse has brown coloring and looks very similar to the brown recluse. These spiders are closely related, but the Mediterranean recluse has a much lighter violin mark on its cephalothorax.
Active at night, during the day this species will hide in secluded areas, and build a silk nest to rest in. Females also lay their eggs in these sacs, and they are capable of laying up to 40 eggs.
At night this spider hunts, feeding on insects like roaches and silverfish. The venom of this spider is similar to the brown recluse and is very potent.
If this spider bites a human it can be quite painful, but this spider usually uses its venom to neutralize its prey.
49. Foldingdoor Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Antrodiaetidae
- Scientific Name: Antrodiaetus unicolor
- Other Names: n/a
- Adult Size: 6.35 to 38.1 mm (0.25 to 1.5 inches)
- Lifespan: 1 to 15 years
- Average Price Range: n/a
Antrodiaetus unicolor is a species found in Ohio and other parts of the United States. This species is a type of folding door spider and is not seen often because of its secretive nature.
The majority of this spider’s life is spent underground in the burrows they build. Rocky areas are avoided by this species, as they rely on loose sand and dirt to build their home.
Females spend most of their life in these burrows. If you spot this spider in the wild it is likely a male, as in the warm and humid weather they wander looking for a mate.
Dark brown, reddish brown, and black are common colors in which this spider appears. They have robust bodies and are medium-sized.
The fangs of this spider are large and assist them in burrowing into the ground. Unlike most other spiders they only have 6 eyes, grouped in pairs of two on their face.
Insects are the main food source for this spider. They are active at night and wait at the edges of their burrows for insects to cross their paths.
This spider’s burrows are lined with silk and hidden by the debris and soil around the area. Many who live near this species do not even know of their existence since their burrow is so well hidden, which is also helpful in hiding from predators.
50. Pantropical Huntsmans Spider
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Family: Sparassidae
- Scientific Name: Heteropoda venatoria
- Other Names: Huntsman spider, Crane Spider
- Adult Size: 22 to 28 mm (0.86 to 1.1 inches)
- Lifespan: 2.5 years
- Average Price Range: $40
The Pantropical huntsman’s spider is one of the largest spiders in Ohio. They also inhabit other tropical regions within the US and are thought to be native to Asia.
Active at night, this species spends most of its time wandering for food. The size of this species is what shocks most when seeing this spider, as some have measured up to 5 inches when including their leg span.
Pantropical huntsman spiders have extremely long legs and small bodies. Their coloring is tan, and on the back of their head is a dark brown marking. Pantropical huntsman spiders can be solid tan or have dark markings covering their body.
Females have more robust, but males have longer legs. The body shape of this spider is flat, allowing them to fit into the smallest of crevices.
Small insects and animals this spider comes across are what this spider feeds on. Roaches, other spiders, small frogs, and small lizards are just a few of the animals they feed on.
Pantropical huntsman spiders are agile hunters, able to move quickly in any direction. Their large size makes them a tasty meal for larger animals that come across them like birds, and lizards.
Occasionally this spider may make its way into homes looking for food. Their flat body allows them to squeeze under doorways or other small areas.
If provoked this large spider may administer a painful bite, but overall they are harmless to humans.
FAQ
What Are The Most Dangerous Spiders in Ohio?
The brown recluse and black widow are the most dangerous spider species that live in Ohio. There are around 2 species of recluse and 2 species of widow spiders that inhabit the state.
While deaths from these spider bites are rare, their venom is still more potent than the other spiders that are found in the area. Medical treatment from their bites may be needed since their bites have a variety of symptoms.
In Ohio, What Are The Largest Spiders?
The Pantropical huntsman spider and wolf spider are the largest spiders that live in Ohio.
The Carolina wolf spider is the largest species of wolf spider that lives in Ohio, but there are several other big species of Lycosidae that live in the state. Even with their size, these large spiders are not dangerous to humans, and only bite if provoked.
Wrapping up
The spiders you can find in Ohio are just a few you can find across the United States. Most of the spiders that live in the state are active from spring to fall, and each species has its own lifestyle preferences.
Near homes, in forests, and in moist wetland habitats are just a few places spiders are found. This article is not only useful in knowing what spiders in Ohio may appear, but also how to identify them.
The variety of spiders makes them great pets for some. Spiders are easy to care for, but most have short lifespans.
Before getting a pet spider it is best if you thoroughly research and learn about the best species for you. Some of the spiders in Ohio make great pets, and they are also essential in helping keep a balanced environment.
Spiders should not be feared, and learning about them is a great way to see how unique animals they really are.
More spiders in nearby states