Running Crab Spider
Scientific Name: Philodromus species
Order & Family: Araneae (Order), Philodromidae (Family)
Size: 3 mm to 10 mm (body length), with a leg span of 1.5 to 2 cm
Natural Habitat
Typically found on vertical surfaces such as walls, ceilings, tree trunks, and foliage. They are common in residential gardens and inside homes.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; they hunt small insects such as flies, midges, and aphids using speed rather than webs.
Behavior Patterns
Active hunters that do not build webs to catch prey. They are known for their extreme speed and erratic, side-to-side running movements. They often wait in ambush with their legs spread out.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest populations. They are not medically significant to humans; their venom is mild and they are generally shy and reluctant to bite unless crushed.
Identified on: 3/24/2026