(Cobweb Spiders or False Widows)
(species unknown)
Steatoda - Species unknown
I think it may be Steatoda grossa
Male Steatoda in lava rock at Clear Lake WMA near Delta, UT. This tiny little guy,
with the body size of a red ant, was racing over lava rock looking in all the
nooks and crannies. I chased him because I knew he was something different.
Finally got a few shots when he thought I was some kind of threat and stood
still and watched me. Pretty spider! These spiders can give a nasty, painful
bite if provoked. © Carol Davis, 3-19-2008
Steatoda triangulosa
(Triangulate Cobweb Spider)
1/8" to 1/4" (body size)
Found this tiny little beauty while cleaning my shed in Taylorsville, Utah. Took her from the
bucket she was hanging around in and put her in a white glass bowl long enough to take this
reflective photo. Put her back in the bucket and tucked it in a safe place. She was instantly
starting a new messy web--busy, busy, busy. I was amazed at how fast she could spin a web
and work her way to the top of the bucket. Not a spider to turn your back on. While they are
in the same family as the black widows, their bite is not quite as painful but it comes with fever,
cramps, etc. Always wear gloves when cleaning out sheds or garages. This spider is known
to prey upon the Brown Recluse (follow link to article). Thanks always to Bugguide.net for
help in identification. © Carol Davis, 9-9-06
Home - Utah Spiders
Other Home - Amazing Nature