Spiders in Bulgaria

Spiders are everywhere, especially in Bulgaria. You can certainly encounter them in the forests, caves, mountains, body of water, and even in plains. There are several spider species in Bulgaria. Some of them are totally harmless while others are highly venomous. Most of these spiders live under stones and landscapes. Should you wish to find out more information about various spider species in Bulgaria, keep on reading below.

Spiders in Bulgaria Identification Chart

Table Of Content hide

Common Spiders in Bulgaria

Biggest Spiders in Bulgaria

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spider

Common Spiders in Bulgaria

Red-sided Sector Spider (Zygiella atrica)

Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)

—

Biggest Spiders in Bulgaria

Silver-sided Sector Spider (Zygiella x-notata)

—

Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

False Black Widow (Steatoda grossa) - The False Black Widow spider is part of the Steatoda genus and is frequently confused with the more dangerous Black Widow Spider. Known by various names, including 'cupboard spider' and 'brown house spider' in Australia, this species sometimes earns the label of a pest in certain areas.… Continue Reading >

Sicariidae

Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa) - The brown recluse spider is a special spider found mostly in the central and southern parts of the U.S. It's part of a small group of spiders in North America known for having strong venom, along with the Chilean recluse and black widow.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spider

Orb Weavers

Cross Orb Weaver (Araneus diadematus) - Did you know the Cross Orb Weaver spider comes from Europe and North America? Their legs are super cool because they can spin special round webs.… Continue Reading >

Lobed Argiope (Argiope lobata) - Discover the Argiope lobata, a fascinating orb weaver spider that makes its home across three continents. Here, you'll find intriguing facts and details about this widespread spider.… Continue Reading >

Walnut Orbweaver – Nuctenea umbratica

Nursery Spiders

European Nursery Web Spider – Pisaura mirabilis

Crab Spiders

Goldenrod Crab (Misumena vatia) - Goldenrod Crab Spiders are super cool! They can change colors and hang out on flowers, waiting for their food. Instead of making big webs, they use silk for catching food or keeping their eggs safe.… Continue Reading >

Pink Crab Spider – Thomisus onustus

Wolf Spiders

Hogna radiata - The Hogna radiata is a big spider that's part of the wolf spider family. If you're looking at spiders in Italy, this one's hard to miss because of how big it is and its cool looks.… Continue Reading >

Wasp Spider

Wasp (Argiope Bruennichi) - The wasp spider is a unique member of the orb-weaver family. Originally from northern and Central Europe, you can also find them in parts of Asia and North Africa.… Continue Reading >

Jumping Spiders

Half-edged Wall Jumping Spider – Menemerus semilimbatus

Cellar Spiders

Marbled Cellar Spider (Holocnemus pluchei) - Meet the marbled cellar spider! Many call it the "daddy-long-legs" because of its long, thin legs. These cellar spiders love to hang out in homes, especially in attics and basements, making silky webs.… Continue Reading >

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Triangulate Cobweb (Steatoda triangulosa) - Meet the triangulate cobweb spider from the Steatoda genus! Found in places like North America, New Zealand, and Europe, this little spider has a neat triangular pattern on its back.… Continue Reading >

Sac Spiders

European Sac Spider – Clubiona pallidula

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there poisonous spiders in Bulgaria?

Yes, Bulgaria is home to several venomous spider species, though most are not considered dangerous to humans. The most notable venomous families include Cobweb Spiders (Theridiidae) and Sicariidae. While their bites can cause reactions, fatal encounters are extremely rare and most spiders you encounter are harmless.

What is the most common spider found in Bulgarian homes?

The Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum) is one of the most frequently encountered spiders inside Bulgarian homes. This species is known for building its tangled webs in corners, basements, and other undisturbed areas. They are considered harmless to humans and help control populations of household insects.

Where do spiders in Bulgaria typically live?

Spiders in Bulgaria inhabit a wide variety of environments, including forests, caves, mountains, and plains. Many species prefer to live in secluded, undisturbed locations. You can commonly find them living under stones, within dense landscapes, in cellars, and in the quiet corners of buildings and homes.

How can you identify a Red-sided Sector Spider in Bulgaria?

The Red-sided Sector Spider (Zygiella atrica) is best identified by its unique orb-web, which characteristically has one sector missing. This spider often has a silvery abdomen with a darker, leaf-like pattern. Its name comes from the reddish-brown coloration frequently found on its sides and legs.

What are the biggest spiders found in Bulgaria?

While many large species exist, the Silver-sided Sector Spider (Zygiella x-notata) is noted as a significant spider in Bulgaria. Other larger spiders include various orb-weavers and nursery web spiders. These spiders can have impressive leg spans but are generally not aggressive towards humans and are rarely seen.

Are Orb Weaver spiders in Bulgaria dangerous?

No, Orb Weaver spiders found in Bulgaria are not considered dangerous to people. This group, which includes the Walnut Orbweaver, is known for its large, circular webs. While they possess venom to subdue prey, their bites to humans are rare and typically result in only minor, localized irritation.

What makes the European Nursery Web Spider unique?

The European Nursery Web Spider (Pisaura mirabilis) is unique because of its maternal care. The female carries her large, white egg sac in her jaws until the spiderlings are ready to hatch. She then builds a silk “nursery” tent in vegetation to protect them after they emerge.

Spiders in Bulgaria

Common Spiders in Bulgaria

Biggest Spiders in Bulgaria

Most Venomous Spiders