Identify a Spider by Photo
Found a spider in the bathtub, the garage or the garden? Take a photo from a safe distance and upload it. Our free spider identifier names the species, tells you whether it's a danger to people, and shows you the look-alikes.
Upload a photo of the spider
Photos are analyzed by Google AI only to identify them and are not stored. Do not upload sensitive images. Privacy
Step by step
- 1
Don't touch it
Photograph the spider where it is. For a closer look, trap it under a clear glass.
- 2
Get the body and legs in focus
Markings on the abdomen, the leg pattern and the eyes are the best clues.
- 3
Upload and identify
Add the photo above and press Identify spider.
- 4
Check the look-alikes
Compare the result with similar spiders, especially before you decide it's harmless.
Most spiders are harmless - and helpful
Nearly all spiders have venom, but only a handful are dangerous to people, and many can't even bite through human skin. House spiders, wolf spiders, jumping spiders and orb weavers eat flies, mosquitoes and other pests. Leaving them alone - or moving them outside - is usually the best choice.
The two US spiders to take seriously
In the United States, only two groups of spiders are considered medically significant:
- Widow spiders - the black widow is shiny black with a red hourglass under its abdomen, and its bite can cause painful muscle cramps
- Recluse spiders - the brown recluse is tan to brown with a dark violin shape on its back, six eyes in pairs and legs of one solid color. It lives mainly in the south-central and Midwest states
Spiders often mistaken for brown recluses
The brown recluse is one of the most over-identified animals in America, and plenty of harmless brown spiders get the blame - especially outside its native range:
- Wolf spiders - bigger, hairy and patterned, with eyes in three rows
- Cellar spiders - very long, thin legs and a small body
- Grass spiders and funnel weavers - striped and fast, with funnel-shaped webs in the lawn
- Southern house spiders - the males are tan, long-legged and easily confused with recluses
Is it really a spider bite?
Many marks blamed on spiders are actually skin infections, other insect bites or allergic reactions. If a wound gets worse, spreads or comes with a fever, see a doctor.
For a suspected widow or recluse bite, wash the area with soap and water, apply a cool compress and get medical advice - US Poison Control is available 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222. Call 911 for trouble breathing or severe symptoms.
Keep spiders out without spraying
A few simple habits make your home far less inviting:
- Seal gaps around doors, windows and pipes
- Cut clutter in basements, garages and closets
- Shake out shoes, gloves and clothes stored in the garage or shed
- Turn off outdoor lights at night - they attract the insects spiders hunt
- Use a vacuum or a sticky trap for the occasional indoor spider
Frequently asked questions
How do I identify a spider from a photo?
Photograph the spider without touching it, with the body markings and legs in focus, then upload it to the tool above and press Identify spider.
Is this spider poisonous?
Spiders are venomous rather than poisonous, and only a few are dangerous to people - in the US, mainly widow and recluse spiders. The result tells you the danger level, but never handle a spider you can't identify.
How can I tell if it's a brown recluse?
Look for a dark violin shape on its back, six eyes arranged in three pairs and legs that are one solid color with no bands or spines. Many brown spiders are mistaken for recluses, especially outside the south-central US.
What should I do if a spider bites me?
Wash the bite with soap and water and apply a cool compress. If you suspect a widow or recluse bite, or symptoms get worse, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or see a doctor. Call 911 for trouble breathing or severe symptoms.
Is the spider identifier free?
Yes. It's free, works in your phone's browser and doesn't need an app or an account.
Related
Identify a Snake by Picture
Identify a snake from a photo, see if it's likely venomous and learn its harmless look-alikes. Free snake identifier with safety tips - keep your distance.
Identify a Butterfly or Moth
Identify a butterfly, moth or caterpillar from a photo. Get its name, range, host plants and look-alikes like monarch vs viceroy - free, no app.
Identify an Animal by Picture
Identify any animal from a photo - mammals, reptiles, frogs, insects and more. Get its name, habitat, diet and look-alikes, plus tips for staying safe.
Last updated: 2026-10-04
