Marbled Orb Weaver
Araneus marmoreus
Also known as: Pumpkin Spider
The Marbled Orb Weaver is a large garden spider with a beautifully patterned orange or yellow abdomen. It builds circular webs in trees, shrubs, and around structures, particularly in fall. Often called the pumpkin spider for its round orange body, it is harmless and beneficial.
Identification
Size
9-18 mm (female body)
Color
Orange to yellow abdomen with dark marbled patterns; legs banded
Key Trait
Large, round, orange-marbled abdomen; builds classic circular orb webs in shrubs and trees.
Behavior & Habitat
Builds orb webs in the evening and hides in a curled leaf near the edge of the web during the day. Comes out at night to sit in the web center. Most noticeable in fall.
Habitat: Trees, shrubs, gardens, and around home exteriors. Builds webs across open spaces between structures or vegetation.
Diet: Flying insects caught in orb webs.
Signs of Infestation
- Large circular webs in trees and shrubs in late summer and fall
- Orange-bodied spider in or near a leaf shelter at the web's edge
Risks & Damage
Webs across walkways can be inconvenient but the spider is harmless.
Prevention Tips
- 1.Relocate webs that block pathways
- 2.No treatment needed - this is a beneficial garden spider
Why DIY Treatment Often Falls Short
Treatment is inappropriate. This is a beneficial species that naturally controls flying pest populations.
Professional Treatment
Professional treatment is not recommended for orb weaving spiders.
Related Pests
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the marbled orb weaver dangerous?
Why do I only see them in fall?
Will they survive winter?
Need Help With Marbled orb weaver?
If you're seeing signs of marbled orb weaver in or around your home, professional treatment is the fastest way to stop the problem. Lotus Pest Control offers free inspections to identify the issue and recommend the right solution.
At a Glance
- Category
- Spiders
- Scientific Name
- Araneus marmoreus
- Size
- 9-18 mm (female body)
- Color
- Orange to yellow abdomen with dark marbled patterns; legs banded
- Key Trait
- Large, round, orange-marbled abdomen; builds classic circular orb webs in shrubs and trees.
- Regions
- Northeast, Midwest, Southeast
- Threat Level
- Very Low
- Risk Types
- nuisance
- Seasonal Activity
- MarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecJanFebnonelowmoderatehighpeak