What is this black spider with an orange back?

"I’ve spotted an orange and black spider. Should I be worried? What species could it be?"

Spiders with orange and black coloring are more common than you might think, and most of them are completely harmless. If you've spotted one in your yard or home, there are a handful of species it's likely to be. Here's a quick guide to the most common ones.

 Marbled orb weaver (Araneus marmoreus) 

One of the most frequently spotted spiders with an orange back in the US. The marbled orb weaver has a large, rounded abdomen that ranges from bright orange to pumpkin yellow, often with dark marbling. Despite its striking appearance, it's harmless to people.

 Johnson's jumping spider (Phidippus johnsoni) 

Also known as the red-backed jumping spider, this species has a mostly black body with a distinctly orange or red abdomen. It's found primarily in the Western US, often under rocks, in wood piles, or on low vegetation. Like other jumping spiders, it's not medically significant, though it can deliver a painful bite if handled roughly.

 Black widow (Latrodectus spp.) 

The black widow is the one orange and black spider worth knowing about, though it's often misidentified. The female is glossy black with a distinctive red or orange hourglass marking that sits on the underside of the abdomen. They're not aggressive, but a bite can cause discomfort and should be assessed by a healthcare professional. If you suspect black widows on your property, it's best to get a professional involved rather than handle them yourself.

What to do if you’re concerned

If you're unsure what you're dealing with, don’t handle the spider. Our spider control services can help with identification, prevention, and removal.