
Community identification
Triangulate Cobweb Spider
Steatoda triangulosa
- Order & Family
- Order Araneae, Family Theridiidae
- Size
- Body length is typically 3 to 6 millimeters (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch).
Natural Habitat
Commonly found in dark corners of homes, basements, and man-made structures; also found in gardens or under rocks.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous predator of small arthropods, including ants, houseflies, ticks, and even other spiders.
Behavior Patterns
Constructs irregular, messy 'tangle' webs. It is a nocturnal hunter that often remains hidden in crevices during the day.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits ecosystems by controlling household pests. It is not considered dangerous to humans; while they possess venom, their bite is generally no more severe than a bee sting and they are very hesitant to bite.