Wasp Spider in Oregon? - Ask Extension
I've lived in Southern Oregon my whole life, and spent many years being in love with bugs and spiders. I am familiar with and have seen our Yellow Gar...
Knowledgebase
Wasp Spider in Oregon? #811959
Asked September 23, 2022, 2:19 PM EDT
I've lived in Southern Oregon my whole life, and spent many years being in love with bugs and spiders. I am familiar with and have seen our Yellow Garden Spiders - orb weavers are some of my favorite spiders. This spider I saw in my yard looked different, and appears to be a Wasp Spider. I cannot find information online about them being in Oregon, let alone North America. Can you help me more positively identify this spider? Or did I find a spider where it doesn't belong?!
Jackson County Oregon
Expert Response
You have a great eye, to recognize this species as being different than the black and yellow garden spider (Argiope aurantia). This species is in the same genus, but is a different species: Argiope trifasciata, or the banded garden spider. When this species sets up their webs for all to see, it is typically a harbinger of fall. This spider has great timing!
Ah!! Yes that's it!!! Thank you so much, I really like knowing about all the bugs and animals around me, and sharing that information with others - I appreciate getting to have accurate information. I hope your day is lovely
