AroUnD the JerSeY Shore New Jersey - Home To A Variety Of Spiders

Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator New Jersey is home to approximately 11

common spiders, but about 98 percent of spiders are not harmful. Only a few are poisonous. This is just a quick guide to the spiders you may encounter. Use your judgment and be cautious. Spiders are considered arachnids, not bugs or insects. They consist of two body parts and eight jointed legs. Surprise! They are relatives of the crayfish, as well as the lobster. Spiders are very useful. They will feed on moths, mosquitoes, cockroaches, flies, and earwigs. This means that, without even realizing it, you are better able to enjoy the outdoors. Those living naturally outdoors, there is no need to kill them – they are doing their job. Educate yourself so you’re not surprised or caught off guard when you encounter them.

Due space constrictions, I will list these 11 spiders and indicate those that are poisonous. American grass spiders, web builders, bite but not toxic to humans; hacklemesh weavers prefer dark, damp, woodlands, no venom; yellow garden spiders, non-toxic venom to humans; cross orb weaver, spin beautiful webs, venom non-toxic to humans; Parson spiders, ground hunter, nocturnal, painful bite but harmless; wolf spiders, ground hunters, bite may sting, but no issues; long bodied cellar spiders, hang out in dark places like caves, cellars, garages, and warehouses, has fangs but will not harm you; bold jumping spiders, ground hunters, pounces, the bite will hurt but non-toxic; brown recluse spiders, the most feared, prefers crawl spaces, attics, behind baseboards, and basements, will attack you, powerful bite and venom will eat away at your tissue, seek immediate medical assistance; black widow spiders, spin webs, hang upside-down, most venomous in this country, venom not nearly as fatal as the recluse; common house spiders, most spiders fit into this category, non-venomous. Pest control companies can help identify and eradicate infestations in your home. The recluse spider poses the most threat to your life and limb – seek medical assistance right away.

Information for this article from was gathered through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/ or federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which includes harm inflicted upon any animal, are punishable by law.