Danger Level: 4/5

Hobo Spider

Eratigena agrestis

Hobo spiders are medium-sized brown spiders measuring 10-14mm. They have a distinctive chevron (V-shaped) pattern on their abdomen pointing toward the head, and solid brown legs without rings or bands...

Quick Facts

Size10-14mm body length
ColorBrown with chevron pattern
Lifespan1-2 years
Active SeasonsSummer, Fall
Common LocationsBasements, Ground level, Garages

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Identification

How to Identify Hobo Spider

Quick Answer

Hobo spiders are medium-sized brown spiders measuring 10-14mm. They have a distinctive chevron (V-shaped) pattern on their abdomen pointing toward the head, and solid brown legs without rings or bands.

Hobo spiders are medium-sized brown spiders measuring 10-14mm. They have a distinctive chevron (V-shaped) pattern on their abdomen pointing toward the head, and solid brown legs without rings or bands. They create funnel-shaped webs with a retreat at one end. Often confused with giant house spiders and wolf spiders.

Hobo Spider - showing key features for identification
Behavior

Hobo Spider Behavior & Habits

Understanding how hobo spider behave helps prevent infestations

Hobo Spider behavior and habitat

Hobo spiders are poor climbers and primarily found at ground level. They're most active in late summer and fall when males wander in search of mates. They're not aggressive but will bite if trapped against skin. They build funnel webs in dark, moist areas like basements, window wells, and under debris.

Dangers

Hobo Spider Risks & Dangers

What hobo spider can do to your health and property

Health Risks

Hobo spider bites are debated—once considered highly dangerous, current research suggests they're not as medically significant as previously thought. Bites may cause pain, redness, and slow-healing wounds in some cases. Seek medical attention if you suspect a bite.

Property Damage

Hobo spiders don't cause property damage but their funnel webs in basements and garages are unsightly.

Warning Signs

Signs of Hobo Spider Infestation

Look for these indicators in your home

Funnel-shaped webs in corners and crevices
Webs in window wells and basement corners
Spider sightings at ground level
Increased sightings in August-October (mating season)
Brown spiders running rather than climbing

Hobo Spider in Boise & the Treasure Valley

Hobo spiders are established throughout Idaho and common in Boise-area basements and garages. They're most frequently encountered in late summer and fall during mating season when males wander extensively. They prefer moist environments, making basements and crawl spaces ideal habitat.

Our Solution

How We Eliminate Hobo Spider

Professional treatment for complete elimination

Hobo spider control focuses on treating ground-level areas where they live and travel. We apply residual products along baseboards, in basements, and around foundation perimeters. Reducing their insect prey through general pest control is equally important for long-term management.

Prevention

How to Prevent Hobo Spider

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation

1
Seal cracks and gaps in foundation
2
Install door sweeps on exterior doors
3
Clear window wells of debris
4
Reduce clutter in basements
5
Use sticky traps along baseboards
6
Regular pest control to reduce prey insects
FAQ

Hobo Spider Questions Answered

Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment

Are hobo spiders dangerous?

Hobo spider danger has been debated. Current research suggests they're less dangerous than once believed, but bites can still cause localized pain and irritation. Seek medical attention for any suspected spider bite.

How do I tell a hobo spider from other brown spiders?

Hobo spiders have solid brown legs (no rings), a chevron pattern on their abdomen, and build funnel webs. They're poor climbers, so you'll find them at ground level rather than on walls or ceilings.

Why do I see more spiders in fall?

Male hobo spiders wander extensively in late summer and fall searching for mates. This increases indoor sightings dramatically from August through October.

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Similar Pests

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