The cat-faced (or cat face) spider (Araneus gemmoides) is a common outdoor orb-weaver spider. The spider gets its name from the shape of its abdomen which looks similar to the face of a mountain lion.
These spiders are considered beneficial garden residents as they will consume many types of pests. The female cat-faced spider dies soon after laying eggs.
The cat-faced spider is one of the most common orb weavers in the Western United States.
The abdomen of the spider contains a pair of conical humps at the top of the abdomen that form the “ears” of the cat-face pattern. Other markings on the abdomen contribute to the face-like features on this spider.
Although the size of this spider can be intimidating to some people, this orb weaver spider is considered non-harmful to humans.
References
Cat face spider. (n.d.). Department of Entomology – Washington State University. https://entomology.wsu.edu/outreach/bug-info/cat-face/
Eaton, E. R. (2011, October 30). Spider Sunday: Cat-faced spider. Bug Eric. https://bugeric.blogspot.com/2011/10/spider-sunday-cat-faced-spider.html
