Spiders in Haiti

When talking about countries in the Caribbean, one of the most visited is Haiti. It has some of the most beautiful living creatures, but it also has some of the deadliest such as the notorious spiders. If you are planning to visit Haiti, make sure you equip yourself with knowledge about the different spider species in the country. Get to know more about spiders in Haiti by reading this article up to the end. It tackles not only the most common spiders but also the biggest and dangerous species.

Spiders in Haiti Identification Chart

Table Of Content hide

Common Spiders in Haiti

Biggest Spiders in Haiti

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Haiti

Berland’s Trashline Orb Weaver (Cyclosa berlandi)

Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)

—

Biggest Spiders in Haiti

Giant Crab Spider (Olios giganteus)

Pantropical Huntsman Spider (Heteropoda venatoria)

Golden Silk Orb Weaver (Trichonephila clavipes)

Most Venomous Spiders

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 >

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 >

Less Venomous Spiders

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 >

Giant crab spider – Olios giganteus

Tarantulas

Hispaniolan / Haitian brown tarantula – Phormictopus cancerides

Orb Weavers

Golden Silk Orb-Weaver (Nephila) - Have you ever seen a spider's web that shines like gold? Meet the Golden Silk Orb-Weaver! With 23 different types living around the world, they're known for their special golden webs.… Continue Reading >

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common spiders found in Haiti?

The most common spiders in Haiti include the Berland’s Trashline Orb Weaver and the Common House Spider. These species are frequently encountered due to their adaptability, often building webs in gardens, on buildings, and inside homes. Their prevalence makes them a familiar sight in both urban and rural areas.

Are there dangerous venomous spiders in Haiti?

Yes, Haiti is home to venomous spiders, with species from the Cobweb spider family (Theridiidae) being of potential concern. While most spider bites are not medically significant, some can cause adverse reactions. If bitten by any spider, it is always recommended to seek professional medical evaluation for proper assessment.

What is the biggest spider in Haiti?

The biggest spiders in Haiti include the Hispaniolan brown tarantula and the Pantropical Huntsman Spider. The tarantula is notable for its large, heavy body, while the huntsman is known for its extensive leg span. Both are visually imposing but are generally reclusive and avoid human contact when possible.

How can you identify a Golden Silk Orb Weaver in Haiti?

You can identify a Golden Silk Orb Weaver by its large, intricate web made of distinctive yellow-hued silk. The female spider is large with a silvery carapace and an elongated yellow abdomen with white spots. Her long legs often have noticeable tufts of black hair, making her quite distinct.

Is the Haitian brown tarantula aggressive towards people?

The Haitian brown tarantula (Phormictopus cancerides) is not typically aggressive towards people but can be defensive if it feels threatened. It may first display a threat posture or flick urticating hairs from its abdomen, which can cause irritation. A bite is usually a last resort for this species.

Where are you likely to find a Pantropical Huntsman Spider in Haiti?

You are likely to find a Pantropical Huntsman Spider in and around homes in Haiti, as they are drawn to insects attracted by lights. These spiders do not build webs but actively hunt prey. They often hide in crevices, behind wall hangings, or in sheds during the day.

Does the Giant Crab Spider in Haiti build a web?

No, the Giant Crab Spider (Olios giganteus) found in Haiti does not build a web to capture prey. It is an active hunter that relies on speed and camouflage to ambush insects and other small arthropods. This spider is typically found hiding under bark, rocks, or in foliage.

Spiders in Haiti

Common Spiders in Haiti

Biggest Spiders in Haiti

Most Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)