Southern Utah Spider Webs

Spider Web Identification

Identifying spiders based on their webs can provide clues about the type of spider that presents themselves in Southern Utah. Here are some common types of spider webs and the spiders associated with them:

1. Orb Webs: Orb webs are intricate, circular webs often found between branches or in vegetation. They are typically constructed by orb-weaving spiders such as garden spiders (Araneidae family) or orb weavers (Araneidae, Tetragnathidae, and other families). These spiders are known for their round-shaped webs with radiating spokes and spiral threads. Western Spotted Orbweaver, Marbled Orbweaver, Golden Silk Orb-weaver, Black-and-Yellow Garden Spider, Hacklemesh Weaver and Long-jawed Orb Weaver

2. Cobwebs: Cobwebs are irregular, messy webs commonly found in corners, ceilings, or abandoned areas. They are often associated with cobweb spiders, particularly those in the Theridiidae family. The most famous cobweb spider is the common house spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum). Cobwebs may also be constructed by cellar spiders (Pholcidae family). Black Widow Spider, Common House Spider, Brown Widow Spider, Cobweb Spider and Cellar Spider

3. Funnel Webs: Funnel webs have a distinct funnel-shaped structure leading to a retreat where the spider hides. These webs are typically found in grass, bushes, or along the ground. Funnel weavers, also known as grass spiders or funnel-web spiders (Agelenidae family), construct these webs. The hobo spider (Eratigena agrestis) and the grass spider (Agelenopsis spp.) are examples of spiders that build funnel webs. Linyphiidae, Funnel Weavers, Hacklemesh Weaver and Mesh Web Weaver

4. Sheet Webs: Sheet webs consist of a flat, horizontal sheet of silk with a small retreat for the spider. They are often found on plants, under stones, or on the ground. Spiders that construct sheet webs include the money spiders or sheet weavers (Linyphiidae family), as well as some species of funnel weavers (Agelenidae family). Money spiders, Funnel weavers, Mesh web weavers, Hammock spiders and Hacklemesh weavers

5. Tangle Webs: Tangle webs are messy webs with irregular shapes and multiple threads crisscrossing each other. They are typically constructed in bushes, trees, or among vegetation. Spiders that build tangle webs include cobweb spiders (Theridiidae family), comb-footed spiders (Theridiidae family), and some orb-weaving spiders. Comb-footed spiders, Cobweb spiders and Orb-weaving spiders

6. Trapdoor Webs: Trapdoor webs are burrow-like structures with a hinged lid made of silk and debris. They are usually found in soil, under rocks, or in tree bark. Spiders that construct trapdoor webs include trapdoor spiders (Ctenizidae and Idiopidae families). Trap Door Spiders

By observing the structure and location of spider webs, along with any spiders present, you can often make an educated guess about the type of spider inhabiting the area. However, for accurate identification, it's best to consult with an expert or reference guides specific to your region.

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