Utah’s Two Biggest Spider Species: Are They A Threat To You?

If you haven’t seen a Utah spider in your yard or house over the last few weeks you are either lying or in sweet denial.  

There are some extra creepy ones that are only scary looking and not harmful while there are some harmless looking ones that will cause life-threatening bites. There is a whole guide to what to look out for, but we are going over the first category.  

Learn More: https://b921hits.com/4-utah-spiders-you-need-to-avoid-during-the-warmer-months/

The wolf spider and the huntsman spider are often confused because they are both big and are the state's largest species of arachnids. However, despite these creepy looking guys being hideous (sorry, my arachnid dudes) they aren’t an actual threat to humans.  

This is not to say that I wouldn’t scream like a little girl if one of them came near or crawled on me.  

But they do have a purpose which includes keeping other bugs at bay like mosquitos and wasps.  

Wolf Spiders of Utah 

Wolf spiders are not web forming spiders, which means they stalk and run after their prey. These guys have tan and brown markings and since its spring...you might see them carrying their babies on their back.  

Just like many spider bites, the venom will cause some redness, swelling and itchiness outside of an allergic reaction.  

Huntsman Spiders of Utah 

These guys don’t do well in the cold and tend to stick to bark areas and rocks. However, that does not mean you won't see one in or near your house. They have long flat legs and tend to be a solid tan color.  

The bite of a huntsman spider can be painful but is not considered dangerous to humans. If I see one though, I will immediately faint or burn down whatever area it's in.  

So, yes, these guys are super creepy, and I understand the fear surrounding them but...now you know. They have their moments of helping with eating cockroaches and other pests so if you can live with them, well they can live with you.