Into the Web: Largest Spiders of Maryland Revealed

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According to Planet Friendly Pest Control, Maryland is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including several species of large spiders. Southern Maryland have the massive South American Goliath birdeater, but they do have some large native spiders that can be quite startling. Here's an overview of the most significant spiders in these regions and what residents should know about them.

The Barn Spider

Inspired by the classic book Charlotte’s Web, the barn spider is a harmless orb weaver. These spiders grow up to three-quarters of an inch in length and have a yellow and brown color with striped legs and distinctive markings. While beautiful to some, they can be alarming to those with a fear of spiders (Planet Friendly)

The Wolf Spider

Wolf spiders are among the most intimidating in Maryland. Their bodies can exceed an inch in length, and although they can bite, it’s rare and usually not harmful to humans. These hairy, solitary spiders may seem aggressive but are beneficial for pest control.

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The Grass Spider

Grass spiders are known for their long bodies and legs. They create funnel-shaped webs to trap their prey. Despite their scary appearance and fast movements, their fangs are too small to penetrate human skin, making them harmless to people.

The Nursery Web Spider

Nursery web spiders look similar to wolf spiders but prefer to stay in their webs, waiting for prey. These spiders can grow quite large but are harmless to humans. They are less aggressive and more stationary compared to wolf spiders

The Black and Yellow Garden Spider

Known for their striking black and yellow coloration, these orb weavers build intricate spiral webs. They usually stay in their webs, waiting for food. Their bites can be painful, similar to a bee sting, but are non-lethal unless an allergy is present (Planet Friendly)

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Managing Large Spiders

Even though the largest spiders on Earth aren't found in Maryland, the native species can still be quite unsettling for some. Quick and agile spiders can be particularly alarming for those with arachnophobia. Professional pest control services are available to help manage spider infestations and provide peace of mind.

Understanding the local spider species and taking preventive measures can help keep homes spider-free. For those who need additional help, professional services can offer effective solutions for dealing with these unwelcome guests.