Ground Spider
Scientific Name: Various species within the family Gnaphosidae
Order & Family: Araneae (Spiders), Gnaphosidae (Ground Spiders)
Size: Typically range from 3 mm to 15 mm in body length, depending on the specific species and sex. Females are often larger than males.
Natural Habitat
Ground spiders are highly adaptable and can be found in diverse terrestrial habitats worldwide. They prefer ground-level environments such as forests, grasslands, deserts, gardens, and even inside homes, especially in basements or lower levels. They are often found under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and other debris.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily carnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of small insects and other arthropods that they actively hunt on the ground. Their diet can include beetles, ants, crickets, and other spiders.
Behavior Patterns
Ground spiders are nocturnal hunters and wanderers, meaning they are active at night and do not build webs for prey capture. They are agile and quick, relying on their speed to catch prey. During the day, they typically hide under rocks, logs, leaf litter, or within cracks and crevices. Females lay eggs in a silk sac, which they often carry or guard.
Risks & Benefits
Generally considered harmless to humans. Their bites are rare and typically result in only mild, localized reactions similar to a bee sting if they occur. They are beneficial as natural pest controllers, helping to regulate populations of various insects in their habitats. They do not pose significant risks to agriculture or human health beyond infrequent minor defensive bites.
Identified on: 6/30/2025