Identification of an insect or spider from a photo is tricky and not always reliable, but this appears to be a garden spider (crab type). They enter our homes through cracks and crevasses usually in search of prey or protection. Unless you are personally allergic or sensitive to insect/spider bites, garden spiders are not considered harmful.

Kentucky has 2 toxic spiders, the brown recluse and the black widow. From your photo it does not appear that this spider is either one.

You are welcome to bring the spider into our office for specific identification.

For information on spider control:
http://www2.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfacts/entfactpdf/ef623.pdf

Feel free to contact our office if you have other questions.

Let me know if I can help you further!


Carol Wilder
Horticulture Technician
Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service
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810 Barret Ave
Louisville KY 40204