Running Crab Spiders

Philodromus praelustris Philodromus praelustris Philodromus praelustris

What are they?

The philodromid crab spiders are medium-sized, fast-moving spiders that can often be found hunting on vertical surfaces, especially walls. They get their name from their habit of running sideways to escape capture if disturbed.

Identification

Their habit of hunting on vertical surfaces and the crab-like behavior help to identify this group. They differ from other crab spiders in that the second pair of legs is noticeably longer than the first pair.



     Philodromus praelustris

A pale gray species that occasionally enters houses and hunts on walls at night. Body length can be up to 8mm, with a leg span of around 60mm.
Philodromus praelustris Philodromus praelustris Philodromus praelustris