How to Identify Hairy Brown Spiders

Photograph the spider with your camera. Don't get too close to the spider, it may be venomous. Use a zoom lens to get a closeup image of the entire spider. If the spider is next to an object, take a photo that includes the spider and the object.

Compare the image to the spider images in your spider identification chart or book. Pay close attention to the shade, or shades, of brown on the spider. Some spiders are light brown or dark brown, while others are mainly brown and also feature other colors.

Look for patterns or distinct markings on the spider. Some spiders have striped legs, such as the nursery web spider, while others feature patterns on their backs, such as the wolf spider, which has a Union Jack impression on its back.

Pay attention to where the spider's hair is located. Some spiders are hairy all over, while others may have hair only on their backs, abdomen or legs.

Determine how large the spider's body and legs are. Use an object located near the spider as a reference.

Take note of where the spider is located and when you saw it. Some spiders weave webs between plants and buildings, while others are ground dwellers that prefer to burrow. Some spiders hunt at night, while others are seen hunting during the day.