Spiders in Norway

Some of the most amazing species in the world may be found in Norway’s untamed wilderness. Traveling to Norway gives you the chance to witness animals that are uncommon elsewhere. If you are afraid of creepy crawlers, you will not find much of them in Norway, but it is still worthwhile to know what types of spiders you might encounter. Be wary as although spiders are rare there are still some a few types that are dangerous to humans.

Spiders in Norway

Spiders in Norway Identification Chart

Common Spiders in Norway

Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)

Biggest Spiders in Norway

Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica)

Most Venomous Spiders

Orb Weavers (Araneids)

  • Cucumber Green Spider – Araniella cucurbitina

Less Venomous Spiders

Cobweb Spiders/Tangle Web Spiders (Theridiidae)

Funnel Weaver Spiders

Giant House Spider Image Giant House (Eratigena atrica) - Discover fascinating details about the Giant house spiders! Part of the Eratigena genus, these spiders may have a large appearance, but they're actually quite harmless.… Continue Reading >

Nursery Web Spiders (Pisauridae)

  • European Nursery Web Spider / Nursery Web Spider – Pisaura mirabilis
  • Raft Spider – Dolomedes fimbriatus

Orb Weavers

European Garden Spider 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 >

  • Walnut Orbweaver – Nuctenea umbratical
  • Four Spot Orb Weaver Spider – Araneus quadratus

Comb-footed Spiders

Rabbit Hutch Spider Rabbit Hutch Spider (Steatoda bipunctata) - Discover the intriguing world of the rabbit hutch spider, a comb-footed spider family member. Known for its unique habit of dwelling in places where rabbits live, this spider is more than just its name.… Continue Reading >

Jumping Spiders

Zebra Spider Size 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 >

Crab Spiders (Thomisidae)

Female Goldenrod Crab Spider 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 >

Frequently Asked Questions

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Yes, Norway is home to a few spider species whose bites can be painful, although serious incidents are rare. Orb weavers (Araneids) are among the most venomous types found in the country. While most native spider bites are not medically significant, it is always best to exercise caution.

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The biggest spider found in Norway is the Giant House Spider, *Eratigena atrica*. This species is notable for its significant leg span, which can appear quite large. Despite its intimidating size, it is generally considered harmless to humans and prefers to inhabit undisturbed areas like sheds and cellars.

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The Cucumber Green Spider (*Araniella cucurbitina*) found in Norway is a species of orb weaver. It is easily recognized by its vibrant, almost translucent green abdomen, often with small black dots. This spider is commonly found on leaves in gardens, woodlands, and other low-lying vegetation across the country.

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Yes, a species of false widow spider is present in Norway. The White-spotted False Widow, *Steatoda albomaculata*, is a member of the cobweb spider family found in the region. While related to more notorious widow spiders, its bite is not considered medically dangerous to humans, typically causing only minor irritation.

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Nursery Web Spiders (*Pisaura mirabilis*) in Norway exhibit dedicated parental care. The female carries her egg sac in her jaws until the spiderlings are ready to hatch. She then builds a protective silk tent, or ‘nursery web,’ in vegetation and guards the young spiders until they disperse.

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The most common spider found inside Norwegian homes is the Common House Spider, *Parasteatoda tepidariorum*. This species belongs to the cobweb spider family and is highly adaptable to indoor environments. They are known for building their classic tangled, irregular webs in corners, basements, and other undisturbed household locations.

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The Raft Spider (*Dolomedes fimbriatus*) in Norway is typically found near bodies of still or slow-moving fresh water. This large, semi-aquatic spider inhabits the edges of ponds, marshes, and ditches. It is known for its ability to walk on the water’s surface to hunt insects and small tadpoles.