Bug Identifier
Cat-faced Spider
Community identification

Cat-faced Spider

Araneus gemmoides

Order & Family
Araneae: Araneidae
Size
Females range from 13 to 22 mm; males are much smaller, around 5 to 7 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Often found near houses, under eaves, and in gardens or woodland edges

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous, primarily feeding on flying insects like flies, moths, and mosquitoes caught in its orb web

Behavior Patterns

They are nocturnal orb-weavers that often build large webs. The spider is known for the two horn-like protrusions on its abdomen that resemble cat ears.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. They are not dangerous to humans, as their venom is mild and they are generally non-aggressive.