Marbled Orb-weaver

Scientific Name: Araneus marmoreus

Order & Family: Araneae (Spiders), Araneidae (Orb-weavers)

Size: Females 8-14 mm; Males 5-8 mm

Marbled Orb-weaver

Natural Habitat

Woodlands, fields, gardens, and shrubby areas where they can construct large orb webs. Often found between tall plants or structures.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly flying insects like flies, moths, and mosquitoes caught in their orb webs.

Behavior Patterns

Constructs large, intricate orb webs to catch prey. The female is often seen resting in the center of her web or in a retreat close by. They rebuild or repair their webs frequently. The vibrant coloration of the abdomen, often with a marbled or spotted pattern, is distinctive.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial as they control insect populations. They are not considered dangerous to humans; their bite is rare and typically results in only mild, localized pain, similar to a bee sting, due to their non-aggressive nature and venom that is not medically significant to humans.

Identified on: 9/17/2025