Photo credits
Stu's Images CC BY-SA 4.0 · Stu's Images CC BY-SA 3.0 · James Niland CC BY 2.0 · BoazMagal CC BY-SA 4.0
Argiope species
St Andrew’s Cross Spider Identification in Australia
Colourful orb-weaver often sitting in an X shape in a web with zig-zag silk bands.
First aid / what to do now
- Move away from the spider and avoid handling it.
- Wash the bite area with soap and water.
- Use a cold pack for pain or swelling.
- Call 13 11 26 or seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, spreading, infected-looking, allergic, or you are unsure what bit you.
This site cannot diagnose a bite. In an emergency call 000. For poisoning advice in Australia call 13 11 26.
How to identify the St Andrew’s cross spider
- Sits with legs paired in an X
- Zig-zag silk bands may be visible
- Colourful patterned abdomen
- Found in orb webs
Danger level
Usually low risk
What to check next
Look for the X-shaped resting posture and zig-zag silk.
When to seek medical help
Seek advice for severe or unusual bite symptoms.
Where the St Andrew’s cross spider is usually seen in Australia
Gardens, shrubs, grasslands and sunny web sites.
How it differs from lookalikes
These comparisons are clues, not a confirmed species ID. Use several features together: body shape, size, location, web type and behaviour.
- Jewel spiderMay overlap because of same region, similar size, similar colour. For this spider, check: Look for the X-shaped resting posture and zig-zag silk. For the other possibility, check: Check for the hard spiked body outline and small web in low vegetation.
- Spiny spiderMay overlap because of same region, similar size, similar colour. For this spider, check: Look for the X-shaped resting posture and zig-zag silk. For the other possibility, check: Look for the spiked body shape in a small web.
- Garden orb-weaverMay overlap because of same region, similar size, similar colour. For this spider, check: Look for the X-shaped resting posture and zig-zag silk. For the other possibility, check: Look for the neat circular web and whether the spider appears after dusk.
Common comparisons
People often compare this spider with similar Australian spiders. These quick links help you check the closest alternatives.
Compare this spider by state
Use the state guides to compare this spider with other local possibilities.
Similar spiders to compare
Compare this spider with these likely lookalikes before settling on an identification.
Jewel spiderUsually low risksame region, similar size, similar colour
Spiny spiderUsually low risksame region, similar size, similar colour
Garden orb-weaverUsually low risksame region, similar size, similar colour
Heroic orb-weaver / lichen spiderUsually low risksame region, similar size, similar colourNext useful checks
Still trying to identify this spider?
Use these quick paths if the St Andrew’s cross spider is only one possible match. They help compare photo clues, local spider pages, bite guidance and similar Australian spiders.
Reference notes
How this guide stays cautious
Spider Identifier Australia uses visible clues to suggest likely possibilities. It is not a medical diagnosis or a formal species determination.
- Australian Museum spider informationAustralian spider identification, biology and dangerous spider context.
- Australian Museum funnel-web spidersFunnel-web range, identification and bite-safety context.
- Poisons Information CentreCall 13 11 26 for poisons advice from anywhere in Australia.
Common questions
St Andrew’s cross spider FAQ
Is the St Andrew’s cross spider dangerous?
Danger level: Usually low risk. Seek advice for severe or unusual bite symptoms.
How do I identify the St Andrew’s cross spider?
Check the visible body shape, size, colour, markings, location and web or hiding place. Key clues include: Sits with legs paired in an X; Zig-zag silk bands may be visible; Colourful patterned abdomen; Found in orb webs.
What should I do if I think I was bitten by a St Andrew’s cross spider?
Clean the area, use a cold pack for pain, and seek medical advice if pain is severe, symptoms spread, infection signs appear, or you are unsure what bit you.
Where is the St Andrew’s cross spider usually found?
Gardens, shrubs, grasslands and sunny web sites.
What spiders look similar to the St Andrew’s cross spider?
Common lookalikes can overlap in colour, size, web type or habitat. Use the similar spiders and common comparisons on this page to check alternatives before settling on a match.
Can I identify the St Andrew’s cross spider by photo?
A photo can help if it shows the whole spider, markings, size and where it was found. For the St Andrew’s cross spider, also compare the checklist clues and what to check next rather than relying on colour alone.