While Europe is generally a safe continent, there are also some dangerous animals in Greece to be wary of. However, spiders in Greece are not among them. There is not a single species of venomous spider in the country, meaning that a native Greek spider won’t cause you harm. However, it’s still useful to be able to identify and spot spiders in Greece.
If you love animals, then spiders are worth learning more about. They’re a vital part of the ecosystem and ensuring their continued existence keeps us all safe. Whenever you spot a spider, it’s important to make sure they’re safe and not cause them any harm. After all, they won’t cause you any harm either.
Many people fear spiders but spiders in Greece are completely harmless and crucial to European biodiversity. Here are seven of the most common Greek spiders, including their main characteristics. This will help you identify them so they can stay safe and protected.
Ladybird Spider
The ladybird is a sight to behold. You’re a truly lucky person if you’re able to spot one of these during your trip to Greece since they’re becoming increasingly rare. Its name comes from the distinctive black and red markings that make this spider look somewhat like a ladybird (also known as a ladybug).
If you spot a ladybird spider, then there’s no need to worry. They aren’t poisonous so you won’t have any problems if they bite you. A bite is rare but it could occur if the spider feels that its life is threatened. Therefore, it’s a good idea not to touch one if you don’t have to.
The female ladybird spider grows to around 1.6cm while a male rarely even reaches 1cm. This makes them a small and, if we’re being totally honest, pretty cute spider. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t attempt to pet a ladybird spider.
Pink Crab Spider
One of the most wonderful spiders in Greece that you might come across is the pink crab spider. You’ll recognize it instantly if you do see it. That’s because, as the name clearly implies, they’re bright pink and look kind of like a crab. That makes them stand out if you’ve never seen a creature like this.
You might be worried about touching this spider. The bright color often means that it’s venomous. Well, you’re right to be worried. The pink crab spider is, indeed, venomous. However, it’s such a small animal that its mouth is too small to pierce human skin. That’s why serious bites from this spider are unheard of.
If you’re a spider enthusiast, then keep your eye out for the pink crab spider in Greece. With a body size of under 1cm, though, they can be relatively hard to spot. Just keep your eyes peeled as best you can.
Cross Orb-Weaver
In warmer countries like Greece and Spain, you may not see as many spiders as you’re used to. They like the cold, meaning that they have to stay hidden in warmer countries. One spider that you’re most likely to spot in Greece, though, is the cross-orb weaver. This is a kind of European garden spider, which is found all across the continent.
The cross-orb spider may bite so it’s best to leave them alone if you spot one. Fortunately, though, they’re not venomous. This is good because it means that they aren’t harmful to humans. Nevertheless, the bite can itch a little and certainly isn’t pleasant.
Like all spiders, the females tend to be bigger. Even so, they only grow to around 1.5cm while a male can scarcely hit 0.9cm. This makes them among the smallest spiders and nothing to worry about. They’ll happily keep to themselves, roaming around the garden looking for food.
Gorse-Orb Weaver
If you spot something that looks like a cross-orb weaver but isn’t, then there’s a good chance that it’s a gorse-orb weaver. These are also incredibly common and there’s a good chance you’ll find a few of these wonderful little critters in Greece. Some people fear this spider, which can often come with colorful markings.
However, make sure that you don’t kill a gorse-orb spider if you happen to see one. They’re important for the ecosystem and help to maintain a healthy environment. Their venom is incredibly weak and doesn’t have the potential to harm you or your pets. They certainly aren’t interested in attacking such large animals, either.
If you spot a gorse-orb weaver, just leave it alone. Admire it from a distance and give this wonderful spider the respect it deserves. They can grow up to 2cm, making them slightly larger than a lot of spiders in Greece. Still, they pose no threat to you or your pets.
Zoropsis
The zoropsis is one of the most beautiful, fascinating, and commonly spotted spiders in Greece. They’ve been described since 1878 so we know quite a lot about this species. They’re pretty large, growing up to 2cm, and often confused with the far more deadly wolf spider. The zoropsis is not considered medically important, meaning that it is harmless to humans.
Because of their similarity to the wolf spider, these animals are often referred to as the false wolf spider. This shows that they’re nothing to worry about. If you’re unable to identify this spider – or any spider for that matter – then you should simply give them space. Don’t go near them and you won’t get bitten.
The zoropsis is a striking and beautiful spider. They also provide a vital function in the eco-system so you should aim to give them space to live a happy life. They won’t harm you but rather offer benefits to humans so just leave them be.
Eusparassus
Perhaps the most spectacular spider that you’re likely to come across in Greece is the eusparassus. This is a huntsman spider, which can cause concern to many travelers due to its large size. It’s hardly a tarantula but at 5cm in body length and with long legs, this is significantly bigger than most other spiders in Greece.
Like other species of huntsman spiders, the eusparassus spider is venomous. However, this venom isn’t potent and is nothing to worry about. The bite can cause some itching but this will be gone within a couple of days. Besides, the eusparassus is terrified of humans and will only attack if it believes its life depends on it.
As with all the spiders in this list, the best thing to do if you spot a eusparassus is to leave it alone. It has no interest in harming you or even going near you. Enjoy it from a distance.
Jumping Spider
The term jumping spider refers to over 6000 species of spider, some of which can be found in Greece. These spiders have fangs that contain venom, which is why many humans fear them. However, this venom isn’t poisonous to humans, meaning that a bite is unlikely to cause any more than a slight itch.
These wonderful spiders are not considered dangerous and aren’t a medical threat. Therefore, if you see one, then there’s no need to worry. They’re all over Greece but are unlikely to harm you in any way. Growing up to 2.2cm, these are quite imposing spiders but also impressive.
You shouldn’t worry about any jumping spiders that you come across but rather, you should respect them. They’re beautiful creatures that perform an important function in the ecosystem. Consider yourself lucky if you spot plenty of these in Greece.
Are there venomous spiders in Greece?
Greece is full of many creep-crawlies, including plenty of spiders. However, you’ll be glad to hear that none of them is dangerously venomous and they won’t cause you any harm. While venomous spiders may be imported into the country, you won’t find any dangerous spiders that are native to Greece.
What is the biggest spider in Greece?
Most spiders in Greece are small, meaning they shouldn’t be too scary if you come across one. The biggest spider you’ll find is the eusparassus walckenaeri, a type of huntsman spider. This particular spider has a body size of 5cm but its legs extend much further, making it seem like an especially big spider.
What is the most common spider in Greece?
The spider that you’re most likely to find during your trip to Greece is probably the gorse-orb weaver. This is one of the larger species you can find but it’s also no threat to humans. A gorse-orb weaver bite may sting a little but won’t cause any serious problems since these spiders aren’t venomous.
How common are spiders in Greece?
There are around 1200 different species of spider in Greece, meaning that it’s quite common to spot them. However, spiders are drawn to the cold, meaning that it’s hard to find them during the summer, other than hidden in caves and other cool, dark spaces.
