What kind of spider is this?

Spi

Arachnopeon
Joined
Jul 29, 2010
Messages
1
I saw this spider outside of my home in northern alberta, in late july, any idea on what it is, and if its dangerous?



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jsloan

Arachnoangel
Old Timer
Joined
Jun 22, 2004
Messages
972
I saw this spider outside of my home in northern alberta, in late july, any idea on what it is, and if its dangerous?
Looks like it might be an Araneus gemmoides, aka the "cat-faced spider" or the "jewel" spider. I'd have to examine the actual spider to be certain, because the photo doesn't show me everything about it. This and other large adult orb weavers start appearing about this time of year, and will be around until early to mid September when they will lay their eggs and die.

There are several species of Araenus in your area. These spiders are not dangerous at all; a little scary looking, but harmless. If you find them around the outside of your house be sure to leave them, because they eat a lot of mosquitos and other flying insects. :)
 
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