Bug Identifier
Eastern Parson Spider
Community identification

Eastern Parson Spider

Herpyllus ecclesiasticus

Order & Family
Order Araneae, Family Gnaphosidae
Size
6 to 13 mm (0.24 to 0.51 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in deciduous forests, under rocks, logs, boards, or leaf litter; commonly enters homes and is found on walls or ceilings.

Diet & Feeding

Generalist predator that hunts other insects and spiders at night.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal hunter that does not spin a web to catch prey; it wanders in search of food and hides in silk-lined retreats during the day.

Risks & Benefits

Beneficial to ecosystems by controlling pest insects; may bite humans if handled or trapped in clothing, which can be painful and cause an allergic reaction in some individuals, but is generally not considered medically significant.