Bug Identifier
Crab Spider
Community identification

Crab Spider

Family Thomisidae

Order & Family
Order Araneae, Family Thomisidae
Size
4mm to 10mm (0.15 to 0.4 inches) depending on species and sex.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in gardens, forests, grasslands, and frequently on flowers or building ledges.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; they ambush pollinators and small insects like flies, bees, and moths.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike many spiders, they do not spin webs to catch prey. They sit still and ambush prey using their long front legs. Some species can slowly change color to match their background.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest populations. They are generally harmless to humans; while they can bite if handled, their venom is not considered medically significant.