Ghost Spider

Scientific Name: Anyphaena pectorosa

Order & Family: Araneae, Anyphaenidae

Size: 5 to 8 mm (approximately 0.2 to 0.3 inches) for the body length.

Ghost Spider

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in deciduous forests, gardens, and low-growing vegetation. Frequently enters houses, often seen on walls and ceilings.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on a variety of small insects and other arthropods. They are active hunters that do not use webs to catch prey.

Behavior Patterns

Night-active hunters that roam foliage or buildings searching for prey. The males are known for 'drumming' their abdomens on surfaces (like leaves) to create vibrations to attract females during mating season.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans; they have very mild venom used only for subduing prey and are not aggressive. They benefit the ecosystem and homeowners by providing natural pest control.

Identified on: 3/21/2026