Venomous Spiders

• The widow spiders are the only species of venomous spiders found in the Florida Keys. The widow spiders include the brown widow, the red widow and the southern black widow. While the red widow and southern black widow are native to Florida, the brown widow is not an indigenous species. The widow family is nocturnal and timid, and bites in self-defense when it feels threatened. Recluse spiders, which are not native to Florida, have been reported in other areas of the state, but not in the Florida Keys.
  
  

Non-Venomous Spiders

• Nonvenomous spiders found in the Florida Keys include jumping spiders, crab spiders, wolf and lynx spiders, and orb-weavers. Jumping spiders and crab spiders do not spin webs but hunt their prey actively. Wolf spiders have excellent eyesight and are ground dwellers. The green lynx spider prefers to hunt during the day and is useful in agricultural pest control. The golden silk spider, an orb-weaver, constructs webs of over 3 feet in diameter.
  
  

Habitat

• Spiders live in virtually every habitat. The widow family favors living under objects such as woodpiles, boards, rocks or logs. They also live in sheds, barns or areas that remain undisturbed for long periods. Orb-weavers favor wooded areas while jumping spiders prefer to be on or near buildings. Wolf spiders dig burrows or hide under debris on the ground. Crab spiders like foliage and flowers.
  
  

Prey and Predators

• All spiders are predators, and most feed on flying insects, mites and other spiders. In addition to other insects, the green lynx spider feeds on moths and caterpillars that cause destruction in row crops. Animals that prey on spiders include lizards, such as geckos and skinks. Birds and bats also feed on spiders.