Bug Identifier
Broad-faced Sac Spider
Community identification

Broad-faced Sac Spider

Trachelas tranquillus

Order & Family
Araneae, Corinnidae
Size
Females typically measure 7-10 mm, while males are slightly smaller at 5-8 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found outdoors under bark, stones, logs, and leaf litter. Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, often creating silken sacs in secluded areas like wall cracks or behind furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory, feeding on various small insects and other arthropods. They are active hunters, especially at night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal hunters. Unlike many spiders, they do not build webs for catching prey, but rather for shelter and egg-laying. They are known for their speed and agility when pursuing prey. They often create silken sacs (retreats) in dark, secluded places when resting or molting. Mating occurs, and females lay eggs within a silk sac, guarding them until they hatch.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered harmless to humans, though their bite can be moderately painful, similar to a bee or wasp sting, and may result in localized redness and swelling. They are beneficial in controlling insect populations within their habitat.