Hobbies And Interests
Jumping Spiders
All species of jumping spiders are members of the Salticidae family, the largest family of spiders in the world. These spiders get their name from their incredible jumping ability which they use to leap onto prey. Jumping spiders are also known for their excellent eyesight. Although these spiders exhibit a wide variety of coloring across many different species, black coloring with white spots is common in jumping spiders. They are typically not dangerous to humans.
Cobweb Spiders
The Theridiids are another common family of spiders often referred to as cobweb spiders or sometimes comb-footed spiders. Unlike the jumping spider family, cobweb spiders are web-spinners. Most species are considered harmless to humans and even helpful as they prey upon mosquitoes and flies. However, perhaps the most famous cobweb spider, the black widow, does have a bite that can be dangerous to humans. The male black widow has very distinctive white spots on its body.
Brown House Spiders
The Steadota family of spiders includes many species of brown house spiders. These spiders are outside web builders in warm environments like Australia, though the American house spiders typically build their webs inside. They are not dangerous to humans, although a bite may cause some discomfort. Although they are called brown house spiders, these spiders often have black coloring; white spotting is common as well.
Black House Spiders
One type of spider with black markings and white spots to avoid is the black house spider. Like the brown house spider, it is a web spinner. However, it tends to make its web in hidden parts of houses such as eaves, gutters and under windowsills. The bite of this spider is not lethal but it is poisonous and can cause severe discomfort.