Guide to Spider Species With Striped Leg Markings Found in Connecticut

Spider Species With Striped Legs Living in Connecticut

Connecticut is home to a fascinating diversity of spider species. While the majority of spiders found in the state are harmless to humans, some do possess venom that can cause medical issues if bitten. Of the thousands of spider types living in Connecticut, a number stand out for their distinctive striped leg markings.

Stripe-Legged Spiders Found in Connecticut

Here are some of the most notable striped-leg spider species residing in Connecticut:

Argiope Spider (Argiope aurantia)

The argiope spider spins large, conspicuous webs low to the ground in fields and gardens. The females have silvery bodies marked with black and orange and long, black and yellow striped legs. Some refer to them as black and yellow garden spiders.

Banded Orb-Weaver (Larinioides sclopetarius)

This spider makes its web in shrubs, between trees, and on bridges and barns. The abdomen has silver and black bands, with females having a reddish-orange marking. Their legs have alternating light and dark bands.

Banded Garden Spider (Argiope trifasciata)

Building vertical zig-zag patterned webs in fields and gardens, these spiders have silver and black banded legs with orange-brown joints. The large females are up to 20mm long while the tiny males only reach 5mm.

Black House Spider (Badumna insignis)

Introduced from Australia, this spider is now found in homes throughout Connecticut. It has a dark body with pale stripes on its legs. Bites may cause mild pain and redness.

Carolina Wolf Spider (Hogna carolinensis)

A robust, hairy spider reaching over an inch long, this species has a brown body marked with stripes and large jaws. The legs have faint lighter stripes and the first pair are darker in color.

Daring Jumping Spider (Phidippus audax)

Common in gardens and woodlands, this large black spider has bright white spots and striped legs. It jumps on prey rather than catching it in a web. The bite is painful but not medically significant.

Goldenrod Crab Spider (Misumena vatia)

These ambush predators hide in flowers and can change color from white to yellow. The legs have dark stripe markings and the first pair are longer than the rest. The bite causes short-lived stinging.

Jumping Spider (Salticidae)

Connecticut has around 40 jumping spider species. Most have stocky, hairy bodies with a large pair of front eyes. Legs often have bands of dark hairs contrasting with a pale background color.

Orchard Spider (Leucauge venusta)

Found in gardens and meadows, these spiders build a horizontal web close to the ground. The tan body contrasts with the black and white striped legs. They rarely bite if handled.

Parson Spider (Herpyllus ecclesiasticus)

A ground spider with a cigar-shaped gray body and faint stripes on its long legs. It does not spin webs but hunts prey. The venom can produce mild pain if bitten.

Rabid Wolf Spider (Rabidosa rabida)

One of the largest wolf spiders reaching over an inch long, this fast-moving species has brown and gray stripes on its body. The legs have bands of dark hairs and the first pair is reddish-brown.

Striped Lynx Spider (Oxyopes salticus)

A small brown spider with white stripes on the legs and thorax. It hunts in low vegetation without a web. The venom can cause swelling and itching if bitten.

Identifying Spider Legs

Many spiders can be readily identified by their striped leg patterns. Here are some tips for studying and recognizing their legs:

• Note the number of stripes and segments they encircle.
• Check if the stripes fully encircle the leg or run lengthwise.
• See if the stripes are bold or faint in coloration.
• Look for differences between front and rear legs.
• Compare joint and feet color to the leg striping.

Why Do Spiders Have Striped Legs?

There are a few theories as to why some spider species have banded leg markings:

• Camouflage - When resting in vegetation, stripes and bands can help spiders blend in.
• Warning signal - Bright patterns may warn predators a spider is toxic or can bite.
• Attract mates - Striped legs may help spiders identify each other for breeding.
• Regulate heat - Dark and light bands may help absorb or reflect heat in certain environments.

Striped Spiders to Avoid in Connecticut

Most striped spiders in Connecticut are harmless. But two species with banded legs have more potent venom that can be dangerous:

Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa)

While rare in Connecticut, these spiders do occur in the state. They have six eyes arranged in pairs and dark violin-shaped markings on a sandy brown body. The legs are uniformly light brown.

Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans)

Black widows have long black legs with red bands and a glossy black body with a red hourglass on the underside. They inhabit sheds, woodpiles, and undisturbed outdoor areas.

If bitten by one of these spiders, seek medical care immediately. Reactions can include severe pain, sweating, nausea, and muscle spasms.

Conclusion

Connecticut's diverse spider population includes some fascinating species with banded legs in colors like yellow, white, and black. While most poses no harm, identifying markings and patterns can help steer clear of spiders with more toxic bites. Simply being aware and giving all spiders space is the best practice for safely coexisting with these beneficial predators in the state's ecosystems.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.