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Common Spiders in Bristol, Pennsylvania

The majority of spiders commonly found in Bristol, Pennsylvania, are harmless and seldom bite people, although they may cause an allergic reaction in some people in the rare instances they do bite. One species of concern though, because of its venomous bite, is the black widow. Many spiders found in Bristol will come into homes, mainly during the autumn months. Spiders are beneficial creatures that feed on insects, keeping household pests at bay.

Jumping Spiders
- This species is a small and compact hunting spider that jumps on its prey. The most commonly encountered jumping spider in Bristol is black and hairy, with the larger female measuring up to three-quarters of an inch in length. Jumping spiders have a white-and-yellow pattern on the top of their abdomen. The males have tufts of hair over their eyes that resemble eyebrows.
Common House Spider
- The common house spider, which is prevalent in Bristol's homes and outbuildings, has a yellowish-brown body and a white to brown abdomen. It often builds webs in the corners of walls and windows. This spider is equally common in the garden and is found under rocks and beneath bridges. It prefers damp areas such as the crawlspaces and basements of homes. These spiders abandon their webs on a regular basis to construct a new one, which accounts for the large number of webs often found in a single dwelling.
Yellow Garden Spider
- These are among the largest and most colorful spiders encountered in Bristol. Yellow garden spiders are seen in sunny, outdoor vegetated areas, where they build their large orb webs. Females range in length from three-quarters to 1.1 inches. The elongated oval body of this spider is covered with silver hairs, while the front limbs are completely black.
Southern Black Widow Spider
- The female southern black widow is a shiny, jet-black spider, measuring up to 1.3 inches long when her legs are extended. The male, with its white underbody markings and red spots, is less than half the size. The southern black widow female has a characteristic reddish hourglass marking on its underside. This species is found in woodpiles and under stones outdoors. When indoors, these spiders seek out dark corners and similar undisturbed spots. The southern black widow is the only true venomous spider native to Pennsylvania. Its venom affects the victim's nervous system and is one of the most potent venoms secreted by a creature. Although humans rarely die from these bites, victims experience pain and severe muscle cramps.

Insects & Science