Sweden is a paradise for nature lovers for it has plenty of natural views to offer such as lakes, forest, and snow-capped mountains. This diverse location attracts a variety of wildlife such as brown bears, reindeers, and artic foxes. Oh, and did you know there are spiders too? In fact, Sweden has over 700 spider species. Fortunately, most spiders in Sweden are harmless to humans.
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
Long-Jawed Spiders
European Cave Spider – Meta menardi
Huntsman Spiders
Giant Huntsman (Heteropoda maxima)-The Giant Huntsman spider has a big claim to fame: it has the longest legs among all spiders! Found in the Laos region, this spider is also super speedy. It chases its prey really fast!… Continue Reading >
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 >
No, there are no spiders in Sweden considered lethally dangerous to humans. While a few species, such as the European Yellow Sac Spider, can deliver a painful bite, their venom is not potent enough to cause serious medical harm to a healthy adult. Most of the 700+ native species are completely harmless.
The Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica) is one of the largest spiders in Sweden, with a leg span that can reach up to 12 cm. Another large native species is the Raft Spider (Dolomedes fimbriatus), a semi-aquatic hunter often found near ponds and lakes throughout the country.
Sweden is home to a recorded number of over 700 different spider species. This diverse population of arachnids occupies a wide range of habitats, from dense forests and wetlands to urban environments and inside homes. The vast majority of these species pose no threat to people or pets.
The European Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium punctorium) is considered one of Sweden’s most venomous spiders. Its bite can be quite painful, causing localized swelling and redness comparable to a wasp sting. However, severe reactions are very rare, and the symptoms typically resolve without medical intervention.
The most common spiders found inside homes in Sweden are typically the Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica) and the Window Spider (Amaurobius fenestralis). These spiders are often discovered in corners, basements, and near windows where they build webs to catch insects, helping to control household pests.
Yes, the Raft Spider (Dolomedes fimbriatus) is venomous, but its bite is not considered medically significant for humans. A bite from this large spider is uncommon and usually only happens if it is provoked. The effect is often compared to a bee sting, causing minor, temporary pain and swelling.
Yes, orb-weaver spiders are very common throughout Sweden. Species like the Marbled Orb-weaver (Araneus marmoreus) and the Four-spot Orb-weaver (Araneus quadratus) are frequently seen. They are known for building the classic, spiral-shaped webs in gardens, fields, and forests to catch flying insects during the summer months.