Spiders in Malta

Malta is a Mediterranean island with rich culture and fascinating nature. Speaking of nature, it’s location makes it an ideal place for all kinds of creatures. For the record, it has 157 spiders species, but most of them are non-venomous. Their presence will not be a cause of trouble or alarm. However, you should be wary as it also has some of the most dangerous spider species, in fact, these spiders have toxins powerful enough to cause harm not only to their prey but to humans too.

Spiders in Malta Identification Chart

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Common Spiders in Malta

Biggest Spiders in Malta

Most Venomous Spiders

Less Venomous Spiders

Common Spiders in Malta

Tropical Tent Web Spider (Cyrtophora citricola)	Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)	Cricket-bat Orb weaver (Mangora acalypha)
Common Garbage-Line Web Spider (Cyclosa insulana)	Common Hairy Field Spider (Neoscona subfusca)	—

Biggest Spiders in Malta

Lobed Orb-weaver

Banded Wasp Spider (Argiope trifasciata)

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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 >

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 >

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 >

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

Orb Weavers (Araneids)

Furrow (Larinioides cornutus) - Did you know there's a spider called the Furrow spider? It belongs to the orb-weaver family. You can find them in places like North Africa, Europe, parts of Asia, and even in North and South America!… 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 >

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 >

Four Spot Orb Weaver Spider – Araneus quadratus

Funnel Weaver (Agelenidae)

Barn Funnel Weaver (Tegenaria domestica) - Discover the Barn Funnel Weaving Spider, a spider known by various names worldwide, like the Domestic House Spider in Europe and the Common House Spider in the Pacific Northwest.… Continue Reading >

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Red House (Nesticodes rufipes) - Have you ever spotted a red spider in your home? It might be the red house spider! They're often found chilling in cool spots or near doorframes.… Continue Reading >

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 >

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any dangerous spiders in Malta?

Yes, Malta is home to some dangerous spider species whose venom can be harmful to humans. While most of the 157 native species are harmless, groups like the Cobweb Spiders (Theridiidae) and Sicariidae possess medically significant venom, warranting caution if you encounter them in your home or garden.

How many spider species are found in Malta?

There are 157 recorded spider species found throughout the Maltese islands. This rich biodiversity is due to the favorable Mediterranean climate. The vast majority of these species are considered non-venomous and do not present a significant threat to people, playing a key role in the local ecosystem.

What is the biggest spider species found in Malta?

The Lobed Orb-weaver and the Banded Wasp Spider (Argiope trifasciata) are considered among the biggest spiders in Malta. These species are notable for their large size and the intricate, expansive webs they construct. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are generally not aggressive towards humans unless directly provoked.

What are the most common spiders found inside Maltese houses?

The Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum) is one of the most frequently encountered spiders inside homes in Malta. As a member of the cobweb spider family, it adapts well to indoor environments, often building its characteristic messy, tangled webs in corners, basements, and other undisturbed areas.

Does Malta have any medically significant venomous spiders?

Yes, Malta does have medically significant venomous spiders, specifically members of the Theridiidae (Cobweb Spiders) and Sicariidae families. While bites from these spiders are uncommon, their venom can cause adverse health reactions. If a bite is suspected, it is crucial to seek professional medical attention immediately.

Is the Tropical Tent Web Spider common in Malta?

Yes, the Tropical Tent Web Spider (Cyrtophora citricola) is a common spider species found in Malta. This spider is easily recognized by its unique, three-dimensional tent-like web, which differs from the flat webs of orb-weavers. They are frequently spotted in gardens and areas with plentiful vegetation.

Are Orb Weavers in Malta considered dangerous to humans?

No, Orb Weavers (Araneids) in Malta are generally not considered dangerous to humans. Species like the Cricket-bat Orb weaver and Common Hairy Field Spider are classified as less venomous. Their venom is not medically significant, and they primarily serve as beneficial predators controlling local insect populations.

Spiders in Malta

Common Spiders in Malta

Biggest Spiders in Malta

Most Venomous Spiders