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Cupboard spider

Cupboard spider

Steatoda grossa

A species of False widows, Also known as Dark comb-footed spider, False black widow, House cobweb spider

The cupboard spider is sometimes referred to as the "false widow" because it can often be confused for a black widow or other poisonous spiders. It can be distinguished from these other species by its lack of a bright red hourglass marking or any other bright patterns. The female spiders can live for up to six years, and the males often die after mating.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
Does the Cupboard spider cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Cupboard spider
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Attributes of Cupboard spider
Colors
Brown
Black
Allergy-causing
The Cupboard spider has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Defensive attack
The Cupboard spider has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Cupboard spider can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Cupboard spider typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Cupboard spider
It is a cosmopolitan species and is found in many parts of the world, including all three coasts in North America, in Australia and New Zealand, and in Europe.
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Distribution Area of Cupboard spider
North America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe
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Appearance of Cupboard spider
Like black widows, the female Steatoda grossa is 6 - 11 mm in length and dark colored with a round, bulbous abdomen. Typical coloration ranges from purplish brown to black, with light-colored markings. Steatoda grossa does not have a bright red hourglass pattern or any other bright markings. Like many spiders, the male is sometimes smaller but can many times be nearly as long as the females. It measures 4 - 10 mm in length and is thinner than the female. The two sexes are colored similarly; however, the sexually mature male almost always has lighter, more reddish-coloured legs than the female.
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How to Identify Cupboard spider?

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Adult Size of Cupboard spider
4 - 11 mm
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Predators of Cupboard spider Larvae
Amphibians like frogs and toads, insectivorous birds, larger spiders, insects like mantises and wasps
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Predators of Adult Cupboard spider
Birds, reptiles such as lizards, larger spiders, mammals like small rodents
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Scientific Classification of Cupboard spider
Tips for Finding Cupboard spider
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How Can You Attract Cupboard spider
Since 'cupboard spider' feeds on a variety of insects, suitable traps could include using insects like flies or small crickets as bait.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Cupboard spider
The best time to find 'cupboard spider' is typically at night when they are most active and come out to hunt or feed.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Cupboard spider
Warm and dry conditions are usually best to find 'cupboard spider', as these spiders prefer environments that aren't too humid or cold.
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How and Where Can You Find Cupboard spider at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Cupboard spider juveniles are small and can be difficult to spot. They often reside in corners or crevices of buildings, under outdoor fixtures, or in garden vegetation. A thorough visual check in these areas can help locate them.
Adult Cupboard spider adults are larger and create webs where they wait for prey. These webs are often found in undisturbed, cluttered areas like sheds, garages, or under furniture. Finding cupboard spider adults involves searching for irregular cobwebs and inspecting for the presence of the spider.
Egg Cupboard spider egg sacs are typically concealed and placed in secure locations near the adult's web. Carefully checking near adult web sites can often lead to locating egg sacs. Be cautious not to disturb or touch the sacs directly as it could harm the developing spiders or trigger a defensive response from the guarding adult.
Are Cupboard spider harmful?
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The cupboard spider has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.

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Are Cupboard spider harmful to humans?

The cupboard spider's painful bites produce similar but less severe symptoms as a black widow bite. These symptoms include redness, blistering, malaise, fatigue, nausea, and headaches. Symptoms can last anywhere from one to sixty hours. Though symptoms are rarely severe, consult your doctor if you are concerned.
This spider is not usually hostile to humans, but will bite when threatened or mishandled. Cupboard spider is usually found close to the ground but will make webs in any area that is dark and undisturbed. Be cautious when moving furniture or items that create undisturbed dark areas.
Harmful Effects of Cupboard spider
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Toxic to Humans
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Toxic to Humans

Cupboard spider possesses venom with mild neurotoxic effects, rarely serious in humans. It preys using venom-injecting fangs to immobilize prey. In humans, bites can lead to discomfort and localized symptoms, but severe complications are uncommon. Long-term effects are typically absent following cupboard spider's bite.

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Toxic to Animals

Cupboard spider can cause mild to severe reactions in other animals using its sting. This organism typically stings when threatened or disturbed. Humans may experience pain, swelling, and allergic reactions, with severity ranging from a minor annoyance to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Companion animals like dogs might show signs of discomfort and localized swelling. Smaller creatures such as rats could have more significant physical responses. Even though it's less common, insects like butterflies can also be affected by the toxins if they encounter cupboard spider, though the specific effects on such invertebrates can vary.

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Bite Humans

Cupboard spider typically avoids human interaction and rarely bites. When bites occur, they are a defense response to direct threats. Cupboard spider’s bite method involves injecting mild venom. The immediate impact is slight discomfort, similar to a bee sting, without severe consequences for most individuals.

More Effects of Cupboard spider

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