Hobo Spider

Category:

Actual Size: 1 to 1¾” including legs

Characteristics: Light to medium brown; dark stripe down the center and light brown legs.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Builds webs outside in retaining walls, foundations, and irrigation boxes. Can be found inside running across floors or at ground level.

Habits:

  • Bites are not considered toxic to humans, according to the CDC.
  • Rarely bite people, and when they do, their bite is usually painless.
  • Earns its name from the fact that it’s often found along railroad tracks.


Hobo Spiders in Long Island

A hobo spider is a common type of spider found in Long Island The hobo spider received its name from the fact that it’s often found along railroad tracks. The hobo spider belongs to the funnel-web spider family, and constructs funnel or tube-shaped areas out of their silk to hide in. They can move rapidly, up to three feet per second, when moving from place to place, but are not very good at climbing.

Hobo Spider Habitat

Common outdoor habitats for the hobo spider include rock retaining walls, landscape rocks, cracks in soil or concrete, vegetation, near and around foundations, window wells, irrigation boxes, stacks of lumber, firewood, and bricks. Indoors, the hobo spider is typically found running across the floor or near the floor level. These spiders are not good climbers, however, they will sometimes be found in tubs and sinks. Although some have been observed a few feet above floor level, most hobo spiders are seen running about on the floor or in webs close to the ground or vegetation.

Hobo Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Hobo spiders rarely bite people, and when they do bite, their bite is almost painless. It is no longer believed that hobo spider bites cause tissue damage or skin death (necrosis). Unlike other spiders that have been shown to cause this condition, hobo spider venom is not considered toxic to humans according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you suspect you have been bitten and are concerned about any skin reaction, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

If you are dealing with hobo spiders, contact your local spider technicians.