Crab Spiders in Arizona

Crab spiders can be found in many different locations around the world, including Arizona. The most common crab spiders found in Arizona are very large in size, which is why they are often called giant crab spiders. They have some unique features and characteristics that make them easy to distinguish from other spiders living in Arizona.

  1. Appearance

    • The biggest distinguishing characteristic of a crab spider in Arizona is its large size. It has a leg span of 2 to 2 ¼ inches, making it one of the largest species of spider in the area. It is medium to light brown in color. It also tends to extend its legs at right angles when juxtaposed with their body. This allows it to move sideways at fast speeds, which is why it is called the crab spider.

    Distinguishing Features

    • Crab spiders can do some things that other spiders in Arizona cannot. Most large spiders of its size cannot climb smooth vertical surfaces including walls. Crab spiders can climb smooth walls, which is the easiest way to distinguish them from the large wolf spiders that live in the state. They are able to move sideways and backwards at fast speeds, which other spiders are not able to do.

    Habitat

    • Crab spiders can be found all over Arizona including in the desert. They can be found in large cactuses including saguaros. They can also be found under rocks and in dwellings. They are not poisonous to humans, but they do have a painful bite. For this reason they often need to be removed from homes.

    Hunting Habits

    • Crab spiders in Arizona hunt in a unique way. Arizona crab spiders do not use a web to catch prey. Instead they hunt insects and other food by relying on their speed. They have a great hunting advantage since their legs allow them to move in all directions. It will hide during the day in whatever crevice it can find. It hunts during the night, making this the time most people view them.