Spiders of Alberta

Like 21 Recommend this on Google

Of the 39 species found in our database, the following are established in Alberta. Our current understanding of each spider's distribution is drawn from numerous scientific publications and online spider submissions in order to be as accurate as possible. It is important to remember that spiders are not bound by the territorial lines decided on by humans, therefore their distribution is subject to change. Occasionally, spiders can be found well outside of their known range due to being intentionally or accidentally transported by humans in cars, luggage, and other belongings.

Species Found in Alberta

Agelenopsis spp. Adult Female Adult Male (Grass Spiders)

Summary “Grass Spiders” are represented by 13 species collectively found throughout most of the U.S. and southern Canada, and northern Mexico. Like all members of the funnel weaver family Agelenidae, they spin dense, non-sticky, sheet-like webs with a funnel-like retreat where the spider hides.

Araneus diadematus Adult Female Adult Male (Cross Orbweaver)

Summary This spider is named for the pattern of white spots on the abdomen that form a cross in most specimens. Native to Europe, it was introduced to North America long ago. It spins the classic wheel-like orb web, usually sitting head-down in the hub (center), at night as well as during the day.

http://www.spiders.us/species/filter/alberta/[6/28/2014 2:22:00 PM] Spiders of Alberta

Argiope trifasciata Adult Female Adult Male (Banded Garden Spider)

Summary Females are large, silvery spiders with legs banded in black and yellow. Look for this species in late summer and fall in fields, prairies, gardens, and meadows. The circular webs are built close to the ground amid tall grasses and weeds, often with a zigzag band of silk running through the center.

Castianeira longipalpa Adult Female Adult Male (Ant Mimic Spider)

Summary This strikingly patterned species is a wandering hunter, often catching prey at night as well as during the day. They live close to the ground, under rocks and logs or in leaf litter, but are also occasionally found on (or in) buildings. Their movements are often ant-like, earning them the nickname “antmimic.”

Cheiracanthium mildei Adult Female Adult Male (Longlegged Sac Spider)

Summary

http://www.spiders.us/species/filter/alberta/[6/28/2014 2:22:00 PM] Spiders of Alberta

“Longlegged Sac Spiders” are pale green, tan, or yellow nocturnal hunting spiders with very long front legs. Native to southern Europe, this spider has made its way into North America, where it is now fairly widespread. It is commonly found indoors, where it prowls walls and ceilings at night, looking for prey or mates.

Dolomedes triton Adult Female Adult Male (Six-spotted Fishing Spider)

Summary A large and strong hunting spider, this species is more closely associated with water than any of the other Nearctic fishing spiders. Find it among aquatic vegetation at the margins of streams and rivers, as well as floating around in lakes and residential pools. It eats aquatic insects, small fish, or even small amphibians!

Eratigena agrestis Adult Female Adult Male (Hobo Spider)

Summary The “Hobo Spider” builds a funnel-shaped web on or near the ground, usually under stones and other low-lying debris. It is especially common near man-made structures here in North America, but is more of a field spider in its native Europe. Recent research has shown that it may not be a spider of medical concern as was once thought.

Eratigena atrica Adult Female Adult Male (Giant House Spider)

Summary The leg span of this large funnel weaver can reach 4 inches or more! Native to Europe, the “Giant House Spider” is now well- http://www.spiders.us/species/filter/alberta/[6/28/2014 2:22:00 PM] Spiders of Alberta

established in the Pacific Northwest. The webs can be found in dark corners of rooms, garages, sheds, under rocks and logs, etc. May be mistaken for a Hobo Spider on occasion.

Herpyllus ecclesiasticus Adult Female Adult Male (Eastern Parson Spider)

Summary This a hunting spider that does not spin a web to capture prey. It gets its common name from the black and white color pattern reminiscent of the garb worn by old-time clergymen. Common east of the Rocky Mountains, it sometimes strays indoors in the course of prowling for a meal or seeking a mate.

Misumena vatia Adult Female Adult Male (Goldenrod Crab Spider)

Summary This spider is an ambush hunter, lying patiently in wait on flowers for an insect to come within striking range. Adult females may be overall yellow or white, with the ability to change back and forth. This species can conquer surprisingly large prey like bees and butterflies.

Parasteatoda tepidariorum Adult Female Adult Male (Common House Spider)

Summary This species is abundant and widespread across the entire world, and is closely associated with buildings and other man-made structures. The teardrop-shaped, papery brown egg sacs can aid in their identification. The spider’s color and body shape cause them to be mistaken for “brown widows” on occasion.

Phidippus audax Adult Female Adult Male

http://www.spiders.us/species/filter/alberta/[6/28/2014 2:22:00 PM] Spiders of Alberta

(Bold Jumper)

Summary The “Bold Jumper” is one of the largest and most common species of jumping spider in North America. The spider is mostly black with a conspicuous white, orange, or red triangular patch in the center of its abdomen. Take a close look at this spider’s chelicerae (jaws), as they have a gorgeous, iridescent sheen to them and come in a variety of colors!

Pholcus phalangioides Adult Female Adult Male (Longbodied Cellar Spider)

Summary The Longbodied Cellar Spider is thought to be native to Europe, but can be found globally after having traveled nearly everywhere as a stowaway in commerce. Their long, thin legs and elongated abdomen make them relatively easy to identify. Find them on ceilings, in basements, storage sheds, old wells, caves, and other dry locations with low light.

Salticus scenicus Adult Female Adult Male (Zebra Jumper)

Summary The zebra-like color pattern makes this species one of the easier jumping spiders to identify in the field. It is most common around urban and suburban areas where it hunts by day on fences, rock walls, the exterior of buildings, and similar situations. Thought to be native to Europe, it is also now established in the U.S., southern Canada, and Asia.

Tegenaria domestica Adult Female Adult Male (Barn Funnel Weaver)

Summary

http://www.spiders.us/species/filter/alberta/[6/28/2014 2:22:00 PM] Spiders of Alberta

Today, this species occurs nearly everywhere people live, having spread with international commerce. The sheet-like webs of this spider are conspicuous in dark corners of barns, cellars, sheds, garages, cabins, and other man-made structures. Adult males frequently get caught in bathtubs or sinks at night.

http://www.spiders.us/species/filter/alberta/[6/28/2014 2:22:00 PM]