Spiders are common throughout American homes, gardens, and forests, yet many remain misunderstood. While some are tiny and hidden, others are impressively large or uniquely patterned.
This guide explores 23 types of American spiders, grouped by type, with details on identification, habitat, web style, and behavior. Whether you’re curious or cautious, this overview will help you recognize and better understand these important arachnids.
American House Spiders
American house spiders are commonly found inside homes, sheds, and garages across North America. They are known for their messy cobwebs and shy behavior. These spiders are generally harmless and often help reduce indoor pests by catching insects in their webs.
1. Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)
The Common House Spider is the most widespread spider found indoors in the United States. It often lives unnoticed in ceiling corners or behind furniture, feeding on flying insects.
Identification
- Body length: 4–9 mm
- Yellowish-brown with dark patterns
- Round, bulbous abdomen
- Long, spindly legs
Habitat
Found in dark, undisturbed indoor areas such as basements, attics, window corners, and garages.
Web Type
Creates irregular, tangled cobwebs. Often remains upside-down in the center of the web, waiting for prey.
Behavior
Non-aggressive and rarely bites. When disturbed, it may drop from its web and pretend to be dead.
2. Wall Spider (Theridion murarium)
The Wall Spider is less commonly seen than the Common House Spider but shares a similar appearance and behavior. It’s often found clinging to vertical surfaces indoors.
Identification
- Body length: 3–5 mm
- Gray or brown with mottled markings
- Flattened body shape
- Slender legs with darker joints
Habitat
Lives in wall crevices, behind picture frames, or along ceiling edges—anywhere that offers minimal disturbance.
Web Type
Builds small, sheet-like cobwebs near wall joints or furniture edges.
Behavior
Shy and motionless during the day. Moves quickly when alarmed and prefers to avoid interaction.
3. Triangulate Cobweb Spider (Steatoda triangulosa)
The Triangulate Cobweb Spider is a small but hardy spider that often inhabits corners and cracks in human dwellings. It’s known for the faint triangular markings on its abdomen.
Identification
- Body length: 3–6 mm
- Creamy brown with purplish triangular patterns on the abdomen
- Compact, rounded body
- Shorter legs than most cobweb spiders
Habitat
Found in basements, crawl spaces, and dark closets. Also thrives behind cabinets and along window frames.
Web Type
Creates messy, sticky cobwebs in corners. The spider hangs upside-down while waiting for insects.
Behavior
Very passive and slow-moving. Not known to bite unless provoked and usually stays hidden during daylight hours.
American Grass Spiders
American grass spiders are fast, ground-dwelling weavers known for their funnel-shaped webs spread across grass, bushes, or along house foundations. They belong to the genus Agelenopsis and are harmless to humans. Their quick movements and sheet-like webs make them easy to spot outdoors, especially in the morning dew.
4. Pennsylvania Grass Spider (Agelenopsis pennsylvanica)
This is the most common grass spider in the eastern United States. It builds wide, flat webs with a funnel retreat where it waits to ambush insects.
Identification
- Body length: 8–19 mm
- Light brown with two dark stripes running down the cephalothorax
- Long, hairy legs adapted for fast running
- Narrow body shape
Habitat
Usually found on lawns, garden beds, or near house foundations. Prefers moist environments with plenty of ground cover.
Web Type
Creates a large horizontal sheet web with a funnel on one side where the spider hides. The web is non-sticky but efficient at trapping prey.
Behavior
Extremely fast and shy. When disturbed, it retreats into the funnel or escapes rapidly. Doesn’t bite unless trapped or threatened.
5. Western Grass Spider (Agelenopsis actuosa)
A fast-moving species found throughout the western United States, it shares many traits with its eastern relative but prefers drier climates.
Identification
- Body length: 7–15 mm
- Tan or light brown with darker longitudinal stripes
- Long legs with fine hairs
- Tapered abdomen with faint markings
Habitat
Common in dry grasslands, gardens, and rocky slopes. Webs are often built in grass clumps or between rocks.
Web Type
Typical funnel web with a flat sheet and tubular retreat. Positioned low to the ground or in shallow depressions.
Behavior
Extremely fast and difficult to catch. It detects vibrations and dashes out to grab prey, then retreats quickly.
6. Eastern Grass Spider (Agelenopsis naevia)
This spider is common in fields and suburban yards across the eastern U.S. It’s slightly smaller than the Pennsylvania species but just as efficient.
Identification
- Body length: 6–14 mm
- Brown to gray with faded stripe patterns
- Long, slender legs and narrow body
- Short spinnerets visible from above
Habitat
Prefers grassy fields, lawns, and low shrubs. Often seen in early morning dew covering their webs.
Web Type
Builds wide sheet webs with a funnel. Webs are usually close to the ground or spread over low vegetation.
Behavior
Shy and reclusive. It rarely leaves the web unless hunting. Runs rapidly when threatened but is not aggressive.
American Funnel Web Spiders
American funnel web spiders are part of the Agelenidae family and are known for their signature horizontal sheet webs with a deep funnel retreat. Although they share a name with the dangerous Australian funnel-web spider, American funnel web spiders are harmless and typically avoid contact with humans.
7. California Funnel-Web Spider (Hololena curta)
Native to the western U.S., especially California, this spider weaves thick funnel webs in bushes, under stones, and wood piles. It’s fast-moving and often mistaken for a wolf spider.
Identification
- Body length: 7–13 mm
- Grayish-brown with darker mottled patterns
- Long, robust legs with visible spines
- Oval abdomen with fine hairs
Habitat
Common in dry woodland, gardens, and under debris. It prefers undisturbed outdoor areas where it can anchor its web.
Web Type
Dense horizontal web with a funnel-shaped retreat. Webs are often built in corners or among shrub branches.
Behavior
Nocturnal and shy. It quickly hides when disturbed and rarely bites. Hunts from the funnel’s entrance using vibrations.
8. Potter’s Funnel-Weaver (Agelenopsis potteri)
This species is widespread across the United States and commonly builds webs in grassy or rocky habitats. It’s a typical grass or funnel-web spider in suburban areas.
Identification
- Body length: 6–14 mm
- Brown with two black stripes down the back
- Long, thin legs suited for sprinting
- Light-colored abdomen with faint patterns
Habitat
Found in gardens, lawns, and near house foundations. Prefers locations with thick vegetation or leaf litter.
Web Type
Creates a flat sheet web ending in a small funnel retreat. Often built close to the ground or in dense plants.
Behavior
Highly alert and fast. Dashes out to catch prey and returns to its funnel when threatened. Non-aggressive to humans.
9. Domestic House Spider (Tegenaria domestica)
Although native to Europe, this spider is now common in American homes and buildings. It closely resembles other funnel-web builders but is slightly more adapted to indoor life.
Identification
- Body length: 6–12 mm
- Brownish-gray with chevron markings on the abdomen
- Slender legs with banded patterns
- Flattened cephalothorax and elongated body
Habitat
Found in basements, garages, and wall crevices. Prefers cool, dark indoor areas but can also live outdoors.
Web Type
Builds funnel-shaped webs in corners, floor-level spaces, and behind furniture. The funnel is used as a retreat and ambush point.
Behavior
Usually stays hidden unless hunting. Skittish but non-aggressive. Runs quickly if the web is disturbed.
American Jumping Spiders
American jumping spiders are members of the Salticidae family, known for their excellent vision, curious behavior, and remarkable jumping ability. They don’t build webs to catch prey—instead, they stalk and leap on it like tiny hunters. Found across the U.S., these spiders are bold in movement but harmless to humans.
10. Bold Jumping Spider (Phidippus audax)
This is one of the most recognizable jumping spiders in North America, known for its black body and iridescent green or blue mouthparts (chelicerae). It’s commonly seen in gardens, walls, and even indoors.
Identification
- Body length: 8–18 mm
- Black body with white or orange spots on the abdomen
- Thick legs and large front eyes
- Iridescent green/blue mouthparts
Habitat
Found on walls, fences, gardens, and windowsills. Also enters homes occasionally, especially in warmer months.
Web Type
Does not build webs to trap prey. Constructs small silk retreats for resting and molting.
Behavior
Very curious and active. Will observe movement and may even turn to face humans. Leaps with precision to catch prey.
11. Regal Jumping Spider (Phidippus regius)
The Regal Jumping Spider is one of the largest jumping spiders in the U.S. and is commonly found in southeastern states. Males are black with white markings, while females may be more orange or gray.
Identification
- Body length: 10–22 mm
- Males are black with white spots; females more variable in color
- Iridescent blue or green mouthparts
- Sturdy build with large eyes
Habitat
Prefers open sunny areas like fields, garden edges, and walls. Found on tree bark, foliage, or ground-level plants.
Web Type
Spins silk retreats under leaves or bark—not used for catching prey.
Behavior
Excellent hunter and jumper. It uses its silk as a tether before making large jumps. Not aggressive toward humans.
12. Brilliant Jumping Spider (Phidippus clarus)
Smaller and more colorful than other Phidippus species, this spider is often found in shrubs and tall grasses. Males display vibrant colors during mating rituals.
Identification
- Body length: 6–12 mm
- Males have red/orange and white body patterns
- Females are more muted, often brown with subtle markings
- Large, forward-facing eyes
Habitat
Found in bushes, tall grasses, and garden plants across much of the U.S. Likes sunny, open spaces.
Web Type
No prey webs. Uses silk to build shelters and lay eggs, often hidden in vegetation.
Behavior
Quick and visually responsive. Males often display arm-waving courtship dances. Rarely bites and avoids confrontation.
North American Spiders
North America is home to a wide range of spider species, from orb-weavers to wolf spiders. These spiders vary greatly in size, behavior, and habitat, but most are beneficial predators that help control insect populations. Many of them are common in gardens, forests, and even inside homes.
13. European Garden Spider (Araneus diadematus)
Though native to Europe, this spider is widespread in North America. Also known as the cross orb-weaver, it’s known for its large, circular webs and cross-like markings on its back.
Identification
- Body length: 6–20 mm
- Brown or orange with a white cross on the abdomen
- Large, rounded abdomen
- Short, hairy legs with banded patterns
Habitat
Common in gardens, shrubs, and around buildings. Often builds webs between branches, fences, or window frames.
Web Type
Classic orb-shaped web, rebuilt daily. The spider sits in the center or hides nearby during the day.
Behavior
Passive and web-bound. Only bites if directly threatened. Helps control flying insects like flies and mosquitoes.
14. Dark Fishing Spider (Dolomedes tenebrosus)
This semi-aquatic spider is found near water bodies, woodlands, and shaded buildings. It can walk on water and even dive below the surface to catch prey.
Identification
- Body length: 15–26 mm (leg span much larger)
- Brown to gray with darker chevron markings
- Long legs with banding
- Flattened body
Habitat
Near ponds, streams, or moist wooded areas. Also hides under loose bark, boards, and stones.
Web Type
Does not spin prey webs. Uses silk for egg sacs and retreats.
Behavior
Fast and shy. Hunts by ambushing prey, including insects and even small fish or tadpoles. Non-aggressive to humans.
15. Carolina Wolf Spider (Hogna carolinensis)
The largest wolf spider in North America, this species is a ground-dwelling hunter that does not spin webs to catch prey. It has excellent eyesight and powerful legs.
Identification
- Body length: 18–35 mm
- Brown with lighter and darker stripes
- Thick legs with spines
- Prominent eyes arranged in three rows
Habitat
Found in fields, forests, deserts, and under rocks or logs. Also seen around human structures at night.
Web Type
No webs for hunting. Females build burrows and carry egg sacs attached to their spinnerets.
Behavior
Solitary and fast-moving. Active at night, hunting prey on the ground. Will rear up if threatened but rarely bites.
South American Spiders
South America is home to some of the world’s largest, most colorful, and sometimes most dangerous spiders. These species thrive in diverse habitats ranging from dense rainforests to mountainous regions. While some can appear intimidating, many play key ecological roles and are studied for their unique behaviors.
16. Brazilian Wandering Spider (Phoneutria fera)
One of the most feared spiders in the world, this aggressive and highly venomous spider is native to the Amazon region. It is known for its defensive posture and potent neurotoxic venom.
Identification
- Body length: 17–48 mm
- Brown or tan with black patches on legs
- Long legs with visible spines
- Strong, muscular body
Habitat
Lives in rainforests, banana plantations, and near human dwellings. Often hides under logs, rocks, or inside shoes and clothing.
Web Type
Does not build webs to catch prey. Hunts on foot and shelters in temporary silk retreats.
Behavior
Extremely defensive when provoked. Known for raising front legs in warning. Capable of fast, aggressive movement.
17. Pinktoe Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia)
This colorful and docile arboreal tarantula is popular in the exotic pet trade. It is easily recognized by its pink-tipped feet and velvety body.
Identification
- Body length: 9–13 cm including legs
- Dark green to black with metallic sheen
- Pink or reddish setae (hairs) on feet
- Fluffy, hairy appearance
Habitat
Found in tropical rainforests. Lives in trees, often in hollows or crevices, and builds silk retreats above ground.
Web Type
Constructs tube-like silk retreats in tree hollows or among leaves.
Behavior
Generally calm and non-aggressive. Jumps or retreats when threatened. May release urticating hairs as a defense.
18. Giant Blue-Bloom Tarantula (Pamphobeteus antinous)
This large, striking tarantula is one of the biggest in South America. It is known for its deep blue hues and powerful build.
Identification
- Body length: 7–9 cm (leg span up to 20 cm)
- Dark black to blue coloration
- Thick, heavy body and legs
- Dense covering of fine hairs
Habitat
Found in rainforest regions of Peru and Bolivia. Prefers humid, ground-level shelters such as burrows or under logs.
Web Type
Constructs ground burrows lined with silk. Not used to catch prey.
Behavior
Can be defensive if disturbed. Uses threat postures and may kick hairs. Active mostly at night.
Other Types of American Spiders
Some American spiders don’t fall under broad family groups like house, grass, or jumping spiders. These unique spiders are often solitary, less commonly seen, or specialized in behavior or habitat. Though diverse, they each have fascinating traits that make them worth noting in any spider guide.
19. American Nursery Web Spider (Pisaurina mira)
Often mistaken for wolf spiders, this spider is known for guarding its egg sac and building a “nursery web” for spiderlings. It lives near water or tall vegetation.
Identification
- Body length: 11–19 mm
- Brown to tan with a dark central stripe
- Long, slender legs
- Oval abdomen with light patterns
Habitat
Found in tall grass, shrubs, or along forest edges, especially near water sources.
Web Type
Spins a temporary web around its egg sac and spiderlings, not for catching prey.
Behavior
Females carry egg sacs with their jaws and build nursery webs when eggs are ready to hatch. Active hunters at night.
20. American Green Crab Spider (Misumessus oblongus)
A small, bright green spider found on flowers and vegetation. It gets its name from the crab-like stance and sideways walking motion.
Identification
- Body length: 3–7 mm
- Light green body with semi-transparent legs
- Flattened, wide shape like a crab
- Front legs longer than rear legs
Habitat
Found on flowers, leaves, and shrubs. Prefers sunny gardens and meadows.
Web Type
Does not spin webs for prey. May use minimal silk to hold position on flowers.
Behavior
Ambush predator—waits for pollinators and other insects. Changes position quickly, often with a side-step motion.
21. American Trapdoor Spider (Bothriocyrtum californicum)
This burrowing spider constructs a silk-lined tunnel with a hinged “trapdoor” made of soil and debris. It is rarely seen above ground.
Identification
- Body length: 10–25 mm
- Dark brown or black with a shiny, hard exoskeleton
- Thick, powerful legs
- Large fangs used for ambushing prey
Habitat
Found in dry, sandy or forested soil—especially in the southern and western U.S. Builds hidden burrows with camouflaged trapdoors.
Web Type
Doesn’t spin prey webs. Uses silk to line burrow and secure trapdoor.
Behavior
Nocturnal ambush predator. Waits just inside the trapdoor to grab passing prey with lightning speed.
22. American Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium inclusum)
A small but fast-moving spider known for its pale yellow body and indoor presence. It sometimes causes mild bites, usually when trapped in clothing or bedding.
Identification
- Body length: 5–10 mm
- Pale yellow to light green
- Long legs, darker at the ends
- Small eyes in two rows
Habitat
Found in homes, especially in corners, ceilings, and clutter. Also lives in shrubs and tall grass outdoors.
Web Type
Builds small silken sacs or tubes for resting—not used to catch prey.
Behavior
Active at night. Hunts insects and may bite in self-defense. Known to hide in folded clothes or curtains.
23. American Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda venatoria)
A large, fast spider introduced from tropical regions. It often lives inside homes and warehouses, especially in warm southern states.
Identification
- Body length: 20–30 mm (leg span up to 10 cm)
- Brown with dark markings on legs and body
- Flat, wide body shape
- Long legs with slightly forward bend
Habitat
Found behind furniture, in garages, sheds, or wood piles. Prefers warm, humid environments.
Web Type
Does not spin webs for prey. Uses silk only for resting or egg sacs.
Behavior
Hunts at night and chases down prey. Fast but non-aggressive. Helpful for controlling roaches and other pests.
