What Kind of Spider Is Brown With a Yellow Stripe Down Its Middle?

Several spiders common to North America are brown with a yellow stripe down their middle. Orb weavers, western black and brown widow spiders, as well as funnel weavers all have variations of yellow stripes along their backside. Ranging from venomous to harmless, these creepy, crawly striped arachnids are easy to identify, which can help you avoid potential health risks while gardening and maintaining your home.

A common variety of garden spider, there are more than 3,500 different types of orb weavers, most of which have bright stripes and yellow markings. This spider weaves the large, classic spider web you see drawn in many illustrations and used as props in movies. Orb weavers spin their beautiful, radial spirals of silk high up in gardens and fields to catch insects. The spiders have a wide range and are found virtually worldwide. Orb weavers are not dangerous to humans.

Funnel weaver spiders are often mistaken for the brown recluse, a highly venomous spider. Dark brown in color and bearing yellow-tan stripes on their back, funnel weavers are not harmful or aggressive. They commonly build their webs in grass but they are also often found in homes. These spiders derive their name from the funnel-like web they build that looks almost like a small burrow. This arachnid ranges throughout Canada and the United States. Keep a look out for the funnel weaver when gardening around shrubs and tall grass.