Bug Identifier
Crab Spider
Community identification

Crab Spider

Family Thomisidae

Order & Family
Araneae: Thomisidae
Size
Typically 4 mm to 10 mm in body length, with females being significantly larger than males.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found on flowers, foliage, bark, and leaf litter where they can blend into their surroundings.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; they are ambush predators that feed on insects like bees, flies, and butterflies.

Behavior Patterns

They do not spin webs to catch prey. Instead, they sit and wait for prey to come within reach, often moving sideways or backwards like a crab.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans; they benefit the ecosystem by controlling insect populations in gardens and natural areas.