Orb-Weaver Spider close up from above - commercial spider control in Kailua Kona | Kona Coast Pest Control

Orb-Weaver Spider

Actual Size: 6 mm to 20 mm

Characteristics: Orange, brown, and black; very long legs.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Most abundant in summer, building large circular-shaped webs in garden areas, eaves, and shrubs around the home.

Habits:

  • Also known as garden spiders.
  • Constructs large webs as wide as six feet in diameter.
  • Non-aggressive beneficial spiders that feed on insects.


Orb-Weavers Spiders in Kailua Kona

Also known as a garden spider, the orb-weaver spiders are non-aggressive spiders that can be found in gardens, fields, and wooded areas. These spiders are found throughout the world (minus the Arctic regions) and are commonly known in cultures for their large, circle-shaped webs. These spiders are easy to see with their large size and colorful bodies. Their intricate webs are admirable and used to catch prey for consumption. The web vibrations are what the spiders use to find prey as their vision is poor.

Orb-Weaver Spider Habitat

The orb weavers primarily feed on the insects that are trapped in their webs. They are most abundant during the summer around the home and in garden/outdoor areas. The webs can become quite large (six feet or more) and may be stretched between buildings and plants. These webs can be easy to miss as the webs can be discrete and difficult to see. A common way webs are discovered is by accidentally walking into one or seeing one when it is dark outside and light reflects off the web.

Orb-Weaver Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

While an orb weaver can bite, this is a rare occurrence and the bite is not poisonous to humans. The spider is largely harmless and often the biggest frustration with them is an inconveniently placed web. Sometimes the spider will find their way into a home and make a web in a window sill or doorway. If you come across this spider in your home, their appearance may be startling, but rest assured, they are non-aggressive and not considered dangerous.

If you are dealing with orb-weaver spiders inside your property, contact your local spider exterminators.