Nursery Web Spider

Natural Habitat

Found in tall grass, low shrubs, and meadows, often near edges of woodlands or gardens.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; hunts various small insects such as flies, beetles, and smaller spiders by active stalking rather than using a web.

Behavior Patterns

Active hunters during the day. Females are known for carrying their large egg sacs with their chelicerae and building a protective silk 'nursery web' for the spiderlings once they are ready to hatch.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations. While they are venomous to their prey, they are not considered dangerous to humans; bites are rare and only occur if the spider is roughly handled, usually resulting in minor localized irritation.

Identified on: 3/25/2026