If you’re curious about the diverse spider species found throughout Minnesota, this guide is for you. Whether you’re a homeowner, outdoor enthusiast, or simply interested in local wildlife, understanding the types of spiders in Minnesota can help you identify which ones are harmless and which might warrant caution. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the most common and notable spiders in the state, along with tips on how to distinguish them and what makes each unique.
Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)
The Common House Spider is one of Minnesota’s most prevalent indoor spiders, easily spotted in basements, garages, and corners of living rooms. They are small, with a body length of about 0.2 inches, and have a pale tan or brown coloration with distinctive markings on their abdomen. These spiders are harmless to humans, helping control pest insects indoors, making them beneficial despite their sometimes unsettling appearance.
Cellar Spider (Pholcidae family)
Often called daddy long-legs, cellar spiders are recognized by their long, spindly legs and small bodies, typically less than 0.4 inches. They prefer dark, damp areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and sheds. Despite their reputation, cellar spiders are harmless and even beneficial, as they prey on other insects and even more aggressive spiders like recluse or black widow spiders.
Bold Jumper (Phidippus audax)
The Bold Jumper is a striking, robust spider with a body length of about 0.4 to 0.6 inches. They are easily identified by their vibrant coloration, often featuring iridescent green or blue chelicerae (mouthparts) and distinctive white markings on their abdomen. These spiders are active hunters, known for their quick jumps and excellent eyesight, making them fascinating to observe in gardens and around homes.
Spiny Orb-Weaver (Eriophora spp.)
Spiny Orb-Weavers are small to medium-sized spiders, typically 0.2 to 0.4 inches, with distinctive spiny or tubercled bodies that give them a rough appearance. They weave intricate, circular webs in shrubs, gardens, and around lights at night. Their vibrant coloration, often orange or yellow with black markings, makes them a colorful addition to the local spider fauna, and they play an important role in controlling insect populations.
Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans)
The Black Widow is perhaps Minnesota’s most infamous spider, recognized by its shiny black body and distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of the abdomen. Females are about 0.5 inches long, with males being smaller and less conspicuous. While their venom is potent, bites are rare and typically only occur if the spider is provoked. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as woodpiles, sheds, and basements.
Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis)
Once mistaken for recluse spiders, Hobo Spiders are medium-sized, reaching about 0.3 to 0.4 inches, with a tan or brown coloration and a distinctive pattern of darker markings on their cephalothorax. They are ground-dwelling spiders that often build funnel-shaped webs in cracks, basements, and woodpiles. While their reputation as aggressive or dangerous is debated, they can bite if threatened, so caution is advised.
Woodlouse Spider (Dysdera crocata)
The Woodlouse Spider is easily recognized by its large, reddish-orange body and elongated fangs, which are specialized for catching woodlice. They are about 0.4 inches long and tend to hide under rocks, logs, or debris. Their bites are rare but can cause localized pain and swelling; they are generally harmless otherwise, making them interesting but non-threatening residents of Minnesota’s outdoor spaces.
Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda spp.)
Though more common in warmer climates, occasional sightings of Huntsman spiders in Minnesota have been reported. They are large, with leg spans exceeding 4 inches, and have a flattened body with a hairy appearance, often brown or gray. Huntsman spiders are fast and agile hunters, preying on insects, and are generally harmless to humans despite their intimidating size.
Yellow Garden Spider (Argiope aurantia)
The Yellow Garden Spider is a striking orb-weaver with a body length of about 0.8 inches and distinctive black and yellow markings. They spin large, circular webs in gardens, tall grasses, and shrubs, especially in late summer and early fall. Their bold, contrasting patterns and impressive web-building skills make them an iconic part of Minnesota’s outdoor scenery, and they are harmless to humans.
How to Choose
When selecting which spiders to tolerate or remove, consider their size, behavior, and venom potential. Harmless spiders like orb-weavers, cellar spiders, and jumping spiders help control pests and are generally safe. Conversely, if you encounter black widows or hobo spiders, exercise caution due to their venomous potential. The environment also matters—indoor spiders that pose a risk should be carefully relocated or removed, while outdoor species often contribute to local ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Minnesota spiders dangerous to humans?
Most Minnesota spiders are harmless, including orb-weavers and cellar spiders. Black widows are venomous but rarely bite unless provoked, and bites are treatable.
How can I tell a black widow from other spiders?
Black widows are glossy black with a distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen. They are small, about 0.5 inches, and prefer dark, undisturbed areas.
What should I do if I find a dangerous spider in my home?
Identify the spider if possible, and if it’s potentially dangerous, use a jar or container to trap and release it outside, away from your home. If bitten, seek medical attention promptly.
Are spiders in Minnesota beneficial?
Yes, most spiders help control pest insects like flies, mosquitoes, and other pests, making them beneficial members of the local ecosystem.
How can I prevent spiders from entering my home?
Seal cracks and gaps around doors and windows, keep your home clean and free of clutter, and reduce outdoor debris near your house to limit spider habitats.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the variety of spiders in Minnesota can help you appreciate their ecological role and distinguish between harmless and potentially harmful species. Most spiders you encounter are beneficial and pose little threat, so coexistence is often the best approach. By learning to identify common species and knowing how to respond to more dangerous ones, you can maintain a safe and spider-friendly environment both indoors and outdoors.
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