Identifying Utah Spiders by Their Webs

Spiders build their webs in specific locations to maximize their chances of catching prey.  Here are some common web locations: 

1. Gardens and shrubs: Many spiders build their webs among plants, where insects live. 
2. Corners and crevices: Some spiders prefer dark, hidden areas such as the corners of buildings, under objects, and in crevices. 
3. Open spaces: Certain spiders create large, intricate webs in open spaces like between trees or across pathways. 
4. Ground level: Ground-dwelling spiders may construct webs close to the soil surface or even within burrows. 

The shape of a spider’s web is another key indicator of its species. Here are the most common web shapes: 

1. Orb webs: These are the classic, wheel-shaped webs with spokes and spiral capture lines. Orb weaving spiders are known for these beautifully symmetrical webs. 
2. Sheet webs: These webs are flat, dense, and often found close to the ground or in plants. They are typically horizontal and can be quite large.  
3. Funnel webs: Funnel webs have a narrow opening that leads into a tunnel or burrow. These webs are often found in grass or low vegetation.  
4. Cobwebs: Cobwebs are irregular, messy webs commonly seen in corners and dark areas. They lack a distinct shape and are often built by house spiders. 

Here are some common spiders in Utah and the types of webs they create: 

1. Orb-weaver Spiders:  These spiders, such as the Araneus diadematids, create large, circular orb webs in gardens and across open spaces. Their webs are strong and can capture various insects. 
2. Grass spiders: Grass spiders weave funnel-shaped webs in grassy areas. The web’s funnel leads to a hiding place where the spider waits for prey.  
3. Cellar spiders: Also known as Phocidae, cellar spiders create loose, irregular cobwebs in dark corners of basements, garages, and attics. These webs are often seen hanging from ceilings.  
4. Black widow spider: These infamous spiders build tangled, erratic cobwebs in secluded spots such as under rock, in woodpiles, and around building foundations.  
5. Wolf spiders: While wolf spiders do not build traditional webs, they do create silk-lined burrows in the ground. They are commonly found in gardens and grassy areas.  

1. Observe the location: Note where the web is located. Garden spiders tend to build in vegetation, while house spiders prefer indoor corners. 
2. Examine the shape: Identify the web shape-orb, sheet, funnel, or cobweb- to narrow sown the spider species.  
3. Look for the spider: Sometimes, the spider will be present in or near its web. Note its size, color, and marking for further identification.