White spiders: identification, behavior, and are they poisonous?

Updated on: August 12, 2026

White spiders are fairly common across the Pacific Northwest, and while they can catch you off guard and look a little creepy, most are harmless. Here's what you need to know about identifying them, whether they're dangerous, and what to do if they become a problem.

What is a white spider?

A white spider is any spider that appears white in color, either naturally or through environmental adaptation. There are a few white spider species in the Pacific Northwest; let’s take a look at them.

Goldenrod crab spider (Misumena vatia)

The goldenrod crab spider is the most common white spider you're likely to encounter in the Pacific Northwest. Females are larger than males and can be bright white or pale yellow, sometimes with two faint red stripes along the abdomen. Males are smaller and have a darker, brownish color. Unlike most spiders, crab spiders don't spin webs. They sit still in flowers and ambush passing insects. Their front legs are longer and held wide, giving them their crab-like appearance.

White jumping spider

Jumping spiders are smaller, fast-moving, and known for their excellent eyesight. The white-cheeked jumping spider (Pelegrina aeneola) is one such species you might encounter in the Pacific Northwest.

Some jumping spider species can appear white or very pale, particularly younger individuals or those in certain lighting. They're active hunters that don't rely on webs, and while they can bite if handled, they pose no real threat to humans.

Albino spiders

True albino spiders are extremely rare. Albinism in spiders is caused by a lack of melanin pigment, resulting in an all-white or very pale appearance. Most spiders that appear entirely white are not true albinos; they're simply light-colored species like the crab spider.

Are white spiders poisonous?

If you come across one of these little white spiders in your home or garden, there is no need for concern. These spiders, although poisonous, prefer to ambush insects rather than interact with and bite people. Their venom is unlikely to be harmful to humans unless there are exceptional circumstances. In fact, a lot of spiders in Oregon and Washington, even the dangerous black widow or the hobo spider, will not attack unless they are greatly provoked.

Spiders in Washington

In particular, Washington is home to spiders such as:

• Black widow spider
• Yellow sac spider
• Hobo spider
• Wolf spiders 
• House spider
• Jumping spiders

Check out some of the other spiders you might find in the Pacific Northwest.

How to get rid of white spiders

If you have white spiders on your property, the best way to manage them is by making your home less inviting. Keep outdoor lights off at night to avoid attracting insects, which are their primary food source. Sealing cracks and crevices in walls, doors, and windows can prevent small white spiders from entering. Regularly trimming plants and removing clutter from around your home can also reduce hiding spots. If these little white spiders become a frequent sight, Western’s professional spider exterminators can help identify and address the issue effectively.

White spiders on your property? Contact Western Exterminator!

White crab spiders thrive in moisture, which makes places like Seattle and Portland ideal environments. If you do not take proper precautions, one crab spider can easily become ten, which can lead to a full-blown infestation. If you are experiencing a white crab spider infestation on your property, please contact Western Exterminator today for an inspection.

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