Spiders in France

France is home to numerous spider species. Many of these spiders have an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Although they are not often hazardous to humans, many people are afraid of them because of their appearance, especially if they have a phobia of spiders. While it’s true that some spiders are dangerous and venomous, the majority of them are harmless. Don’t be concerned. These are unlikely to be found in many of the destinations you visit in France. It’s a good idea to be aware of them so you will know what to expect when visiting France. Keep in mind that France is the home to the largest spider in Europe.

Spiders in France Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in France

Biggest Spiders in France

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in France

Long-bodied Cellar Spider	European Garden Spider	Cross Spider
Orangie or Pumpkin Spider/cross orb weaver (Araneus diadematus)	Walnut Orb Weaver Spiders	Wasp Spiders
Cricket-bat Orb Weaver (Mangora acalypha)	Tropical Tent-web Spider (Cyrtophora citricola)	Lobed Argiope (Argiope lobata)
Marbled Cellar Spider (Holocnemus pluchei)	Triangle Crab Spider (Ebrechtella tricuspidata)	Four-spot Orbweaver (Araneus quadratus)
Triangulate Combfoot (Steatoda triangulosa)	—	—

Biggest Spiders in France

Tarantula Wolf Spider (Lycosa tarantula)	Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica)	Radiated Wolf Spider (Hogna radiata)
Silver-sided Sector Spider (Zygiella x-notata)	Mediterranean Spiny False Wolf Spider	—

Most Venomous Spiders

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 >

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

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 >

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 >

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 >

Orb Weavers

Cucumber Green Spider – Araniella cucurbitina

Less Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

European Nursery Web Spider – Pisaura mirabilis

Jumping Spiders

Zebra (Salticus scenicus) - Discover the fascinating world of the Zebra Spider, a creature from the northern hemisphere with stripes like a zebra. These lively spiders don't spin webs to catch their dinner.… Continue Reading >

Fencepost Jumping Spider – Marpissa muscosa
Half-edged Wall Jumping Spider – Menemerus semilimbatus

Crab Spiders – Thomisidae

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 Spiders – Thomisus onustus
Napoleon Spider – Synema globosum

Wolf Spiders

Mediterranean Spiny False Wolf Spider – Zoropsis spinimana

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any dangerously venomous spiders in France?

Yes, France is home to some venomous spiders, most notably the Mediterranean Black Widow. While its bite can be medically significant, causing pain and other symptoms, these spiders are not aggressive and human encounters are rare. Fatalities are extremely unlikely with access to modern medical care.

What is the largest spider found in France?

The largest spider found in France is the Tarantula Wolf Spider (Lycosa tarantula). Despite its intimidating name and size, its venom is not considered dangerous to humans. A bite from this spider is often compared to a bee sting and is not medically significant for most individuals.

What are the most common spiders found inside French homes?

The most common spiders found in French homes include the Long-bodied Cellar Spider and the Giant House Spider. These species are harmless to humans and play a beneficial role by preying on insects and other pests. They are typically found in undisturbed areas like cellars, attics, and corners.

How can you identify a Wasp Spider in France?

A Wasp Spider (Argiope bruennichi) is easily identified by its striking yellow and black striped abdomen, which closely resembles the coloring of a common wasp. This orb-weaver is often found in gardens and grasslands, sitting in the center of its large web that features a distinctive zigzag pattern.

Is the European Garden Spider dangerous?

No, the European Garden Spider (Araneus diadematus) is not dangerous to humans. It is one of the most common orb-weaver spiders in France. While it can bite if it feels threatened, its venom is mild and typically results in only minor, localized irritation similar to a mosquito bite.

What should you do if bitten by a spider in France?

If bitten by a spider in France, you should clean the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce any swelling. Most spider bites are harmless. However, if you experience severe pain, cramping, or other unusual symptoms, it is important to seek professional medical attention.

Where are you most likely to find wolf spiders in France?

You are most likely to find wolf spiders in the warmer, southern regions of France, particularly in dry, sunny habitats like grasslands and scrublands. Species like the Radiated Wolf Spider and Tarantula Wolf Spider are ground-dwellers that hunt for prey rather than building webs to catch it.

Spiders in France

Common Spiders in France

Biggest Spiders in France