In the opening event of our Spider Survey, we asked people to bring spiders from their homes and yards to the Insect Fair, held on May 25-26, 2002. We were overjoyed at the number of people who participated, bringing us close to 1,000 spiders to kick off our study.

Preliminary results are:

• Pholcidae (cellar spiders, daddy-long-legs) 25%
  
• Agelenidae (grass spiders) 14%
  
• Steatoda grossa (false widow) 12%
  
• Gnaphosidae (mouse spiders) 8%
  
• Salticidae (jumping spiders) 6%
  
• Achaearanea tepidariorum (house spider) 6%
  
• Clubionidae (sac spiders) 6%
  
• Theridiidae (comb-footed spiders) 5%
  
• Latrodectus hesperus (black widow) 5%
  
• Others 13%

We will post more definite identifications as we work through the material. For more information on these spiders, please see Common spiders of Los Angeles and our Image Gallery. Please remember that the survey is NOT over, and that we want you to continue to bring spiders to us. It is especially important to bring us new types that you see, as some spiders mature during the summer or the fall.

Disclaimer: The museum appreciates your assistance in this scientific project. If you have any concerns about participating, we suggest you do NOT participate. The museum cannot be responsible for the treatment of bites or for any injury or illness resulting from the project.