Orb Weaver Spider

Natural Habitat

Gardens, forests, fields, and near human dwellings, anywhere they can build a web between supporting structures. Often found on vegetation, fences, or building eaves.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly flying insects such as flies, moths, mosquitoes, and sometimes other small arthropods, caught in their orb-shaped webs.

Behavior Patterns

Orb weavers are known for constructing intricate, circular webs to catch prey. Most are nocturnal or crepuscular, building or repairing their webs at night. They typically sit in the center of the web or hide nearby, sensing vibrations to detect prey. They are generally solitary.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Generally harmless to humans. Their bite is rare and usually only occurs if provoked, resulting in mild pain, redness, and swelling, similar to a bee sting. Not considered medically significant. Benefits: Excellent pest control, as they capture and eat a large number of nuisance insects like flies and mosquitoes.

Identified on: 9/27/2025