| Eastern Parson Spider | |
|---|---|
| Herpyllus ecclesiasticus[1] | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Arachnida |
| Order: | Araneae |
| Superfamily: | Gnaphosoidea |
| Family: | Gnaphosidae |
| Genus: | Herpyllus |
| Species: | H. ecclesiasticus |
| Binomial name | |
| Herpyllus ecclesiasticus Hentz, 1832 |
|
| Synonyms | |
|
Drassus vasifer |
|
The spider species Herpyllus ecclesiasticus is commonly called the eastern parson spider, after the abdominal markings resembling an old-style cravat worn by clergy in the 18th century. It is mainly found in Central USA, with finds stretching from North Carolina to southern Alberta, Canada.[2]
Although this spider presents a startling appearance, living indoors as it frequently does, it is completely harmless to humans or their pets.