Orb Weavers (Family Araneidae) are responsible for the classic, beautiful "circular" webs we see draped across Utah porches and gardens. In Utah, the Cat-Faced Spider and the Western Spotted Orb Weaver are the most common varieties.
Orb Weavers vary wildly in color, but their shapes and webs are unmistakable:
The ShapeThey generally have large, bulbous, and often "ornate" abdomens. The Cat-Faced spider actually has two small "horns" on its back that look like ears.
The WebThey build the iconic "wheel" web, perfectly symmetrical with radial spokes and a sticky spiral.
The SizeBy late September and October, these spiders reach their full size and can appear quite large and intimidating to homeowners.
Orb Weavers are the "landscape artists" of the spider world, and their behavior is almost entirely centered around their webs.
Daily RebuildMany Utah orb weavers are nocturnal. They build a brand-new web every evening and often eat the old silk in the morning to recycle the protein.
Light AttractionThey aren't attracted to your porch lights, but their food is. They strategically build webs near light sources to catch the moths and flies drawn to the glow.
Docile NatureDespite their size, they are incredibly shy. If you walk into their web, they will almost always drop to the ground or flee to the eaves rather than bite.
Do I need to worry about my kids or pets?No. Orb weavers are considered beneficial and harmless. They are excellent "free" pest control for your garden and backyard.
Why are there so many in October?This is the end of their life cycle. They spend the summer growing and eating so they can lay egg sacs in the fall before the first Utah freeze.
How do I stop them from building webs across my door?Turning off porch lights or switching to yellow "bug bulbs" is the most effective way to encourage them to move their webs to the trees instead of your entryway.
