The Cat-Faced Spider, scientifically known as Araneus gemmoides, is a common species of orb-weaver found across North America. This spider often draws attention due to its distinctive appearance, leading many people to question its potential danger. Despite its somewhat intimidating look, the Cat-Faced Spider is not dangerous to humans or pets and is considered medically insignificant. Encounters rarely result in a bite.
Identifying the Cat-Faced Spider
The unique structure of its abdomen is its most recognizable feature and gives the arachnid its common name. The large, bulbous abdomen features two prominent, horn-like projections or tubercles near the front that resemble cat ears. Below these “ears,” a pair of dark-colored dimples are often present, completing the illusion of a cat’s face on the spider’s back.
As a member of the orb-weaver family, A. gemmoides exhibits a round and chunky body shape, with females being notably larger than males. A full-grown female can measure between 0.5 and nearly 1 inch in body length, while the male is considerably smaller. Their coloration is highly variable, ranging from pale straw or ivory yellow to dark grayish-brown, with some individuals even showing reddish hues.
Understanding the Venom and Safety Concerns
Like nearly all spider species, the Cat-Faced Spider possesses venom, which is specifically adapted to quickly subdue its insect prey. The venom is not considered to be of medical significance to humans, large pets, or livestock. While the venom is effective against insects, its effect on mammals is negligible. A bite from A. gemmoides is a rare, defensive action that typically only occurs if the spider is accidentally trapped or pressed against the skin.
If a bite does occur, the symptoms are generally localized and mild. Most reported bites result in a brief, sharp pain immediately followed by minor swelling, redness, or itching at the site, which is often likened to a bee or wasp sting. These symptoms usually resolve within a few hours to a day.
Treatment is minimal, usually requiring only basic first aid such as cleaning the area. Applying a cold compress can help reduce localized swelling.
Habitat, Behavior, and Common Encounters
The Cat-Faced Spider is a type of orb-weaver, a classification given to spiders that construct the familiar, large, circular webs with radiating spokes. These spiders are primarily nocturnal, meaning they spend the day resting in a sheltered spot near their web and become active at night to hunt. They build their intricate, sticky webs in locations where flying insects are likely to pass.
It is common to find their webs stretched across pathways, between branches, or around human-made structures. They frequently choose spots like porches, eaves, window frames, and garden sheds, often positioning the web near an outdoor light source that attracts insect prey. The spider remains passive and non-aggressive.
The species has a one-year life cycle, with the large females being most visible in late summer and early fall as they mature and prepare to lay eggs. Their tendency to build conspicuous webs in busy areas is the main reason for human encounters, but their behavior is to retreat or remain still when disturbed, rather than to attack.