Banana Spiders

No matter what you call it--banana spider, golden orb weaver, or golden silk spider--you're sure to recognize this spider that's native to Florida. Although they can look intimidating, these spiders pose little danger to humans. In fact, they can actually be beneficial to have in your yard since they capture and feed on insects. 

UF/IFAS Sites

• Bothersome, Biting and Stinging Organisms
• Featured Creatures

UF/IFAS Publications

• Arachnid Araneae
• Beneficial Spiders and Mites
• Common Florida Spiders
• Golden Silk Spider--Featured Creatures
• Golden Silk Spider, Nephila clavipes
• Household Spiders
• Orb Weaver Spiders
• Spiders
• Stinging or Venomous Insects and Related Pests
• Venomous Spirders

Other Sites

• BugGuide.Net--Iowa State University
• Florida Spiders: Biology and Control--Public Health Entomology Research and Education Center (PDF)