Question
Q
How can I tell if the spider I found is a hobo spider?
Answer(s)
A
Exact identification of the hobo spider often requires examination under a microscope. When observed with the naked eye, even those familiar with this spider can be fooled by other species that resemble it. In general, hobo spiders have a tan to brown thorax and legs and a grayish abdomen. The abdomen often has a "chevron" pattern (like sergeant's stripes) of yellow markings, though this is usually most noticeable in immatures.
There are several ways to tell if a given spider is NOT a hobo spider:
- The spider has dark bands (like multiple arm bands) around its legs.
- The spider has distinct black markings on the thorax or abdomen.
- The spider is larger than a fifty-cent piece (including the legs).
Additional information and images of the hobo spider are found in the Hobo Spider fact sheet.
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