Known for its good vision that is helpful in hunting and navigation, the jumping spider family is one of many spider families found in Utah. Jumping spiders are named for having the capability of jumping from one place to another through the use of a silk tether.
Twelve different types of orb weaver spiders are also found in Utah. Orb weavers vary in shape, size and color depending on the specific type.
Utah is home to the running and goldenrod species, which are a part of the crab spider family. No matter which type, crab spiders are named for their physical similarity to crabs found on the sea shore.
The cobweb spider family, of which the black widow is a member, can be found throughout Utah. Color variations include rose, brown, white, yellow, black and speckled.
Four families of weaver spiders each make homes in Utah. Funnel-web weavers are characterized by its hairy body. The hairless hecklemesh weaver and the mesh web weaver are smaller spiders. The crevice weaver is small, as well, and also referred to as the southern house spider.
The Gnaphosoidea, or ground spider family is not only found in Utah, but on every continent except Antarctica, as well. Ground spiders are the seventh largest known spider families currently known, with new species still being discovered.
Prowling spiders in Utah include long-legged sac spiders and cheiracanthium mildei. In Utah, this particular spider family is found is hues of green, brown and grey.
On your arachnid hunt in Utah, you will also come across wolf spiders. Several different species are located here and the sizes vary and a large version of the wolf spider is approximately 2 inches (5.1cm) in length.
Also known as the money spider, the sheet web family is one of several other spider families found in Utah. Other spider families include the cellar spider, Western lynx, castianeira and dysdera crocata.
