New York State, with its diverse landscapes, is home to a wide array of spider species. While the sight of an eight-legged creature might cause apprehension, most spiders encountered in New York are harmless to humans. These arachnids play a beneficial role in the ecosystem, acting as natural pest control agents by preying on insects. Understanding common types and behaviors can foster appreciation for their presence.
Common Spiders in New York Homes and Gardens
Several spider species are frequently observed in and around New York homes and gardens. The American house spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum), a common cobweb spider, is often found indoors, particularly in undisturbed corners of basements and garages. These spiders typically measure 5-8 mm in length, with brownish or grayish bodies that may have distinct patterns. They construct messy, irregular webs to trap flying insects.
Cellar spiders (Pholcus phalangioides), often mistakenly called “daddy longlegs,” are recognized by their pale yellow to light brown, narrow bodies and extremely long, delicate legs. They commonly hang upside down in loose, disorganized webs in damp, dark areas like cellars, basements, and crawl spaces. Cellar spiders prey on various household pests, including other spiders, flies, and mosquitoes.
In outdoor settings, the black and yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia) is a large, conspicuous orb-weaver that builds circular webs in sunny fields and gardens. Females can reach up to 28 millimeters in body length and display vibrant black and yellow markings on their abdomens. While their webs are intricate, these spiders are not aggressive and their bites are medically insignificant. Jumping spiders (family Salticidae) are another common sight, known for their compact, often hairy bodies, large eyes, and jerky movements. Unlike web-building spiders, they actively hunt prey by stalking and pouncing, and are harmless to humans.
Spiders to Be Aware Of
While most spiders in New York pose no threat, it is prudent to be aware of the few medically significant species. The Northern Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus) is the most notable venomous spider found in the state. Female Northern Black Widows are shiny black and about 1/2 inch long, with a distinctive red marking on the underside of their abdomen that may appear as two spots rather than a complete hourglass shape. They build irregular, messy webs low to the ground in dark, undisturbed areas such as woodpiles, sheds, and basements.
Bites from a Northern Black Widow are rare and occur when the spider feels threatened or is accidentally disturbed. While their venom is potent and can cause muscle pain, nausea, and sweating, bites are rarely fatal, especially with medical attention.
The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) is not native to New York and its presence is extremely uncommon, though occasional sightings might occur if transported from its native range in the South and Midwest. Bites attributed to brown recluse spiders in New York are more frequently caused by other species, such as the yellow sac spider. Yellow sac spiders (e.g., Cheiracanthium mildei and C. inclusum) are pale yellow to light beige, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, and do not build webs for hunting but construct silken sacs for shelter. Their bites can cause localized pain, redness, and swelling, sometimes leading to a slow-healing sore, but severe reactions are rare.
Identifying Spiders
Identifying spiders involves observing several key characteristics. Size and overall body shape are initial indicators; for example, cellar spiders have very long legs and small bodies, while wolf spiders are robust with sturdy legs. Color patterns, such as the vibrant black and yellow of the garden spider or the uniform pale color of a yellow sac spider, also aid in identification. The type of web a spider constructs is another significant clue; American house spiders create messy, irregular cobwebs, while garden spiders build large, organized orb webs.
Observing a spider’s behavior can provide insight; jumping spiders are active hunters that pounce on prey, whereas web-builders wait in their silk traps. While eye arrangement is a precise identification feature, it often requires magnification and is not practical for casual observation. Reputable online guides from university extension offices or natural history organizations serve as valuable resources for further identification. When unsure, observe from a distance and avoid direct contact.
Living Alongside Spiders
Spiders are an integral part of healthy ecosystems and provide significant benefits, particularly in controlling insect populations. By preying on common household and garden pests like flies, mosquitoes, and ants, they reduce the need for chemical pesticides. This natural pest control contributes to a more balanced environment around our homes.
For spiders found indoors, humane removal methods are simple and effective. A common approach involves placing a cup or jar over the spider and sliding a piece of paper or cardboard underneath to trap it. The spider can then be safely released outdoors, far enough from the building to prevent its immediate return. Understanding that most spiders are harmless and prefer to avoid human interaction can alleviate common fears and promote peaceful coexistence.