Golden Silk Orb Weaver AKA Banana Spider Facts in Ocala, FL; Identification, Bite & More

The Golden Silk Orb Weaver Spider, also often called a Banana Spider, shares this nickname with a few other species. However, it is the only one found in America. The banana spider is found in Florida and is one of the larger species of spider that resides in the state and can often be seen in gardens or yards. This large yellow and black colored spider will occasionally wander inside Florida homes and can be intimidating to remove. Pest 911 wants to share more about this species of spider and a few tips to help keep them out of your home.

Identification of Banana Spiders

As stated, the golden orb weaver spider or often called the banana spider, is one of Florida’s largest spider species, growing over two inches in length, not including its long slender legs. The females are larger than the males with yellow and black coloring. Some banana spiders may even be red, orange, or green instead of yellow in color. Whatever the color, banana spiders do tend to be bright in coloring.

Golden Orb Weaver Spiders Silk Webs

Banana spiders are most often found on the eastern to southeastern states, spinning large webs. The silk produced by these spiders are what gave them their name “Golden Orb Weaver.” The webs have a golden shine when the sun hits the webs. One interesting fact about the golden orb weaver spider is that the web or silk can be collected and made into golden fabric. There have been shawls, gowns, and other garments made from this amazing silk. The web is extremely complex in its design and can be over three feet wide. The golden color helps to attract other insects and prey where which get caught in the webs. The banana spider is often welcomed by farms since they help reduce the crop destroying pests.

Golden Silk Orb Weaver Spider Bite

Due to the banana spider’s size and coloring, many people automatically assume they are dangerous. In short they are not that dangerous to humans. They do produce venom very similar to that of black widow spider. However, much more mild. Their bites do hurt mainly because they are a very large spider with fangs. The reactions related to a banana spider bite are redness, blistering, and pain around the bite. If symptoms are more severe, such as muscle cramping or problems breathing, this is a severe allergic reaction. They are rare but they can occur. If an allergic reaction occurs, seek medical aid.

Spider Prevention & Control

Luckily, banana spiders like to be outside and build their nest off of the ground usually high in tree tops or shrubs. For those who can tolerate their presence, they can help reduce the amount of insects including flies and mosquitoes around your yards and gardens. For those who don’t like eight legged roommates, you may want to consider seeking help from a professional pest control service. You can also help keep spiders out by sealing off large openings such as chimneys. Take care of dryer vents and attic vents with wiring mesh. Also keep window screens in good condition, as well as weather stripping around the doors of your home. Lastly, maintain a clean and orderly yard and avoid clutter or yard debris around your home. If you need help controlling pests around your yard and home, contact Pest 911 for all of your pest control needs.