The Ant-eating Spider is a tiny, red-and-black theridiid spider that specializes in preying on ants despite the danger involved. It uses silk threads anchored to the ground to trip passing ants, then delivers a rapid, precisely placed venomous bite before the ant can retaliate with its own venom. It is often found living near ant trails.
Not certain it is a Ant-eating Spider? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Ant-eating Spider sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Ant-eating Spider? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Ant-eating Spider is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love insects & arthropods? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.