Spiders in Cyprus

When talking about Cyprus the first things that come to mind are beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. However, it is also known for its exotic wildlife, creepy crawlies, and predators. Truth be told, spiders might surprise you when you visit the forestry parts of the island. If you have any plans of traveling to Cyprus, it would be best if you take extra caution in areas known to be heavily infested with spiders, especially if you have fear of creepy crawlers.

Spiders in Cyprus Identification Chart

Table Of Content hide

Common Spiders in Cyprus

Biggest Spiders in Cyprus

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Cyprus

Common Garden Spiders

Wolf Spiders

—

Biggest Spiders in Cyprus

European Tarantula

Walckenaer’s Huntsman Spider also called Cyprus Huntsman (Eusparassus walckenaeri)

Middle East Black Tarantula / Black Furry

Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Steatoda paykulliana - Meet the Steatoda paykulliana spider! It belongs to the comb-footed spiders family. Fun fact: it was named after a famous explorer from Sweden, Gustaf von Paykull.… Continue Reading >

Mediterranean Black Widow (Latrodectus tredecimguttatus) - The Mediterranean black widow spider has a history that dates back to 1790 when Italian expert Pietro Rossi introduced us to it. These spiders belong to the comb-footed family.… Continue Reading >

Brown Widow (Latrodectus geometricus) - The Brown Widow Spider is a cool spider that belongs to the cobweb spiders family. Some people know more about its cousin, the Black Widow, but the Brown Widow has its own interesting story.… Continue Reading >

Widow (Latrodectus) - Meet the Latrodectus spiders, often known as true widows! They're part of the cobweb spider family. By July 2017, there were 31 types of them, living everywhere except Antarctica.… Continue Reading >

Sicariidae

Mediterranean Recluse (Loxosceles rufescens) - Guess where the Mediterranean recluse spider comes from? That's right, the Mediterranean areas! Even though it started there, now you can find this spider all over the world.… Continue Reading >

Less Venomous Spiders

Tarantulas (Theraphosidae)

Middle East Black Tarantula / Black Furry, Black Tarantula – Chaetopelma olivaceum

Jumping Spiders

Red-bellied Jumping Spider – Philaeus chrysops
Pantropical Jumping Spider – Plexippus paykulli

Orb Weavers (Araneidae)

Banded Garden (Argiope trifasciata) - The banded garden spider is a common spider with two types: Argiope trifasciata deserticola and Argiope trifasciata kauaiensis. They prefer warm places and usually aren't around in cold winters because they don't like the chill.… Continue Reading >

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 >

Crab Spiders – Thomisidae

Napoleon Spider – Synema globosum
Giant Crab Spiders – Olios giganteus

Nursery Web Spiders (Pisauridae)

European Nursery Web Spider – Pisaura mirabilis

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there poisonous spiders in Cyprus?

Yes, Cyprus is home to several venomous spiders, but none are considered lethal to healthy humans. Species like the Cyprus Huntsman and certain cobweb spiders possess venom, but their bites are rare and typically result in only localized pain and swelling rather than a serious medical emergency.

What is the biggest spider found in Cyprus?

The European Tarantula is one of the biggest spiders found in Cyprus, along with the Cyprus Huntsman spider (Eusparassus walckenaeri). The huntsman is particularly known for its impressive leg span. Despite their size, these spiders are generally shy and tend to avoid direct contact with humans.

How common are tarantulas in Cyprus?

Tarantulas, such as the European and Middle East Black Tarantula, are present in Cyprus but are not commonly seen. They primarily inhabit rural and forested areas, preferring undisturbed natural habitats over urban or tourist-heavy locations. Encounters are infrequent unless you are actively exploring these specific environments.

Is the Cyprus Huntsman spider dangerous to humans?

The Cyprus Huntsman spider is not considered medically dangerous to humans. While it is venomous and can deliver a painful defensive bite if handled or trapped, its venom is not potent enough to cause serious harm. These large spiders are typically timid and prefer to flee from threats.

What are the most venomous spiders in Cyprus?

The most venomous spiders in Cyprus include species from the Cobweb spider family (Theridiidae) and the Sicariidae family. Although their venom can be potent, bites are extremely rare, and severe reactions in humans are not a common concern. Caution is still advised in their natural habitats.

Where are you most likely to find spiders in Cyprus?

You are most likely to find spiders in the forestry parts, rural landscapes, and gardens of Cyprus. They prefer undisturbed natural areas over busy cities and coastal resorts. Extra caution is warranted when hiking or exploring old stone ruins and wooded areas where many species build webs and burrows.

Can a wolf spider bite in Cyprus be harmful?

A wolf spider bite in Cyprus is generally not harmful, though it may be painful. Their venom is not medically significant for humans, and symptoms are usually limited to minor, localized pain, redness, and swelling at the bite site. Allergic reactions are rare, but the wound should be kept clean.

Spiders in Cyprus

Common Spiders in Cyprus

Biggest Spiders in Cyprus

Most Venomous Spiders