Last updated on September 22nd, 2023 at 12:16 pm
Utah’s diverse landscapes provide a habitat for various spider species, each with its unique characteristics and adaptations. In this quick guide, we’ll introduce you to ten of the most common spiders found in Utah. You’ll learn about their appearance, distinctive features, web designs, preferred habitats, geographic distribution, and whether or not they are considered poisonous.
Common Types of Spiders Found In Utah
1. Black Widow Spider
Appearance: Black widow spiders are easily identifiable due to their shiny black bodies. The female spiders are often adorned with a distinctive red hourglass shape on their abdomen. Females are larger than males, with a body length of up to 1.5 inches.
Differentiation: Their unique coloring, often with the red hourglass or similar marking, sets them apart from other spider species.
Webs: Black widows construct irregular, messy webs in undisturbed areas, such as garages, woodpiles, and outdoor structures.
Habitat: Found throughout Utah, especially in warmer regions. They prefer dark, sheltered locations like basements, sheds, and outdoor nooks.
Geographic Region: Black widow spiders are widely distributed across Utah.
Poisonous: Yes, black widow venom can be harmful to humans, although fatalities are rare. Seek medical attention immediately if bitten.
To delve deeper into the fascinating world of black widow spiders, particularly in the context of spiders found in Utah, you can explore this comprehensive resource on black widow spiders provided by Britannica. This informative source covers various aspects of black widow spiders, their habits, and their distribution, including insights relevant to Utah’s spider population.
Looking for a solution to Indoor Spider problems? Check out our Guide on The Best Spider Spray for Your Home
2. Wolf Spider
Appearance: Wolf spiders are characterized by their robust, hairy bodies, typically brown or gray in color. They have eight eyes, with two large, reflective eyes in the front row.
Differentiation: Their robust build and notable eye arrangement indeed distinguish them from other spiders.
Webs: Unlike most spiders, wolf spiders do not build traditional webs. Instead, they actively hunt for prey.
Habitat: Wolf spiders are found throughout Utah, often encountered in grassy areas, gardens, and under rocks.
Geographic Region: Wolf spiders are widely distributed and found in most parts of Utah.
Poisonous: While wolf spiders can bite if threatened, their venom is not considered harmful to humans and rarely causes severe reactions.
For a comprehensive overview about wolf spiders found in Utah, you can explore this valuable resource on wolf spiders provided by Utah State University. This resource offers details on nesting habits,
3. Desert Recluse Spider
Appearance: The desert recluse spider is typically light brown and displays a distinctive violin-shaped mark on its cephalothorax. These spiders have a body length that ranges from 0.25 to 0.75 inches, with long, spindly legs.
Differentiation: The prominent violin-shaped mark on their cephalothorax sets them apart from other spiders.
Webs: Desert recluse spiders construct irregular, tangled webs in dark, hidden places such as closets, attics, and woodpiles.
Habitat: These spiders are primarily found in the arid regions of southern Utah, particularly in deserts, rocky areas, and dry, sheltered spots. They prefer warm, dry environments.
Geographic Region: Desert recluse spiders are more commonly encountered in the southern parts of Utah, where arid conditions prevail.
Poisonous: Yes, desert recluse spiders can deliver a venomous bite. Although fatalities are rare, their venom can cause necrotic skin lesions and should be treated promptly.
4. Western Spotted Orbweaver
Appearance: Western spotted orbweavers are medium-sized spiders with brown bodies and intricate patterns on their abdomen. Their leg span can reach up to 1 inch.
Differentiation: They are known for their distinctive patterns and colors, which can vary among individuals.
Webs: These spiders do indeed create large, wheel-shaped orb webs, typically suspended in gardens and wooded areas.
Habitat: Western spotted orbweavers are common in Utah’s forests, gardens, and grassy fields, particularly where flying insects are abundant.
Geographic Region: Western spotted orbweavers are found in various regions of Utah.
Poisonous: Western spotted orbweavers are not considered dangerous to humans and are not known to deliver harmful bites.
5. Jumping Spider
Appearance: Bold jumping spiders are easily recognizable by their black bodies and striking iridescent green or blue chelicerae (mouthparts). There are also varieties of Jumping spiders that are white and black. They are small-sized spiders with a leg span of up to 0.75 inches.
Differentiation: Their vibrant colors and robust build make them stand out among spider species.
Webs: Unlike most spiders, bold jumping spiders do not spin webs. Instead, they are agile hunters, actively stalking and pouncing on their prey.
Habitat: Bold jumping spiders are commonly found throughout Utah, frequently seen on walls, fences, and vegetation.
Geographic Region: Bold jumping spiders can be encountered in various regions of Utah, making them a relatively widespread species.
Poisonous: Bold jumping spiders are not considered harmful to humans and are not known to deliver medically significant bites.
6. Grass Spider
Appearance: Grass spiders typically have elongated bodies with light brown coloration and distinctive dark stripes on their cephalothorax.
Differentiation: Their striped appearance sets them apart from other spider species.
Webs: These spiders create funnel-shaped webs that are often located in tall grass and shrubs.
Habitat: Grass spiders are commonly found statewide in Utah, especially in grassy and weedy areas, meadows, and gardens.
Geographic Region: Grass spiders have a wide distribution and can be encountered across various regions of Utah.
Poisonous: Grass spiders are not considered dangerous to humans and are not known to deliver harmful bites.
7. Hobo Spider
Appearance: Hobo spiders are brown with a distinctive chevron-shaped pattern on their abdomen. They have a leg span of up to 1 inch.
Differentiation: The chevron pattern on their abdomen is a key identifying feature.
Webs: These spiders create funnel-shaped webs and are commonly found in basements, dark corners, and moist areas.
Habitat: Hobo spiders are more prevalent in the cooler, wetter regions of northern Utah, often inhabiting damp environments.
Geographic Region: Hobo spiders can be encountered in various regions of Utah, although they are more commonly found in the northern part of the state.
Poisonous: While they can deliver bites, hobo spider venom is not highly toxic to humans, and severe reactions are uncommon.
8. Cellar Spider
Appearance: Cellar spiders are characterized by their delicate, long-legged appearance. They have pale bodies and exceptionally long, thin legs, with a small body size.
Differentiation: Their spindly legs and small body size make them distinctive.
Webs: Cellar spiders construct tangled, irregular webs in dark corners of buildings and cellars.
Habitat: These spiders are widespread in Utah, often inhabiting dark, humid locations such as basements, cellars, and caves.
Geographic Region: Cellar spiders can be found in various regions of Utah, especially in indoor environments.
Poisonous: Cellar spiders are not venomous to humans and are considered harmless.
9. Yellow Sac Spider
Appearance: Yellow sac spiders are usually pale to light yellow in color with a cylindrical body shape. They have darker chelicerae (fangs).
Differentiation: Their pale yellow coloration and elongated body distinguish them from many other spider species.
Webs: Yellow sac spiders create small, silken sacs or retreats where they hide during the day.
Habitat: These spiders can be found throughout Utah and are commonly encountered indoors. They prefer dark, sheltered locations, such as corners, ceilings, and under furniture.
Geographic Region: Yellow sac spiders have a wide distribution across Utah.
Poisonous: While their bites can cause localized pain and redness, yellow sac spider venom is not considered highly dangerous to humans, and severe reactions are rare.
10. Common House Spider
Appearance: Common house spiders are small to medium-sized with a round abdomen and a brownish-gray coloration. They often have a dark chevron-shaped pattern on their cephalothorax.
Differentiation: Their overall appearance and chevron-shaped pattern on the cephalothorax can help distinguish them.
Webs: These spiders build irregular, tangled cobwebs in corners, basements, and other undisturbed areas of homes.
Habitat: As their name suggests, common house spiders are frequently found indoors, especially in residential buildings. They prefer quiet, low-traffic areas.
Geographic Region: Common house spiders are found throughout Utah.
Poisonous: Common house spiders are not considered dangerous to humans, and their bites typically result in minor discomfort and localized redness.
Conclusion
In this extensive guide, we’ve explored the captivating world of spiders found in Utah, offering valuable insights into their unique characteristics and habitats. We’ve provided detailed information on nine common spider species, offering an understanding of their unique characteristics, preferred habitats, and any potential risks they might pose to humans. You may not be able to remember all the pictures or details of each spider, so don’t be afraid to bookmark this page and come back when you need it.
While it’s true that a few, such as the desert recluse and black widow, can raise health concerns if they bite, it’s important to recognize that the majority of Utah’s spiders are harmless. In fact, they play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance by controlling local insect populations. Armed with knowledge about these arachnids and their habitats, you’re better equipped to peacefully coexist with these fascinating creatures, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural diversity found in the Beehive State.
Utah’s spiders, with their remarkable adaptations and behaviors, contribute to the richness of the state’s ecosystems. By embracing this biodiversity and acknowledging the positive impact spiders have on the environment, you can further enhance your connection to Utah’s magnificent outdoors. Remember, if you ever encounter a spider that raises doubts or are bitten by one causing concern, it’s advisable to seek guidance from local experts or medical professionals. Your exploration of spiders found in Utah has only just begun, so continue to be curious, respectful, and appreciative of these vital members of our local ecosystems.
