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Cat-faced Spider (Araneus gemmoides)

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description Cat-faced Spider (Araneus gemmoides) Overview

The cat-faced spider, Araneus gemmoides, is an orb-weaver native to North America and commonly encountered in the western part of the continent. Its rounded abdomen bears two prominent projections that can resemble cat ears, while variable markings sometimes suggest a face. Like other orb-weavers, it constructs a circular web to capture insects and is generally not medically significant to humans, making it a familiar garden spider rather than a serious household hazard.

help Cat-faced Spider (Araneus gemmoides) FAQ

Why is the spider called the cat-faced spider?

Araneus gemmoides has a rounded abdomen with two prominent projections that can resemble cat ears. Variable markings on the abdomen can also suggest a face.

Where is the cat-faced spider found?

The cat-faced spider is native to North America and is commonly encountered in the western part of the continent. Its scientific name is Araneus gemmoides.

What kind of spider is Araneus gemmoides?

It is an orb-weaver spider. Its rounded abdomen and web-building lifestyle fit the broad orb-weaver group.

Is the cat-faced spider named for a real animal face?

No, the name describes a visual resemblance created by the abdomen's projections and markings. The two bumps can look like ears, while the markings sometimes suggest facial features.

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