Is a Daddy Long Leg the Same as a Cellar Spider?
The short answer is no—a daddy long leg is not the same as a cellar spider. Here’s why:
Cellar Spiders
- These are true spiders belonging to the family Pholcidae.
- They have eight legs, two body segments, and can spin webs.
- Cellar spiders are commonly found indoors, especially in basements or other damp, quiet spaces.
Daddy Long Legs (Harvestmen)
- These are not spiders at all; they belong to a group called Opiliones.
- While they have eight legs like spiders, their bodies are a single oval shape with no distinct segments.
- Daddy long legs do not spin webs and are more commonly found outdoors.
Key Point: Although people often call both creatures “daddy long legs,” they are two completely different animals.
What Are the Differences?
While cellar spiders and daddy long legs may look similar at first glance, they have several distinct differences:
1. Body Structure:
- Cellar spiders have two body segments (a cephalothorax and abdomen) connected by a thin waist.
- Daddy long legs have one single body segment that looks like a small round ball.
2. Legs:
- Both have long legs, but cellar spiders’ legs are thinner and more delicate.
- Daddy long legs have thicker, sturdier legs.
3. Webs:
- Cellar spiders spin webs to catch their prey.
- Daddy long legs do not make webs and instead scavenge for food.
4. Behavior:
- Cellar spiders are often stationary in their webs.
- Daddy long legs are more active and move around frequently.
5. Venom:
- Cellar spiders are venomous but harmless to humans.
- Daddy long legs do not have venom glands or fangs.
Key Tip: If it’s in a web, it’s likely a cellar spider. If it’s wandering around, it might be a daddy long leg.
What Are the Similarities?
Despite their differences, cellar spiders and daddy long legs do have a few things in common:
1. Long Legs:
- Both are known for their very long, thin legs.
- This feature is the main reason they often get confused with one another.
2. Non-Aggressive:
- Neither cellar spiders nor daddy long legs are aggressive toward humans.
- Both prefer to avoid confrontation and will only defend themselves if threatened.
3. Diet:
- Both feed on small insects and other pests.
- This makes them beneficial for controlling unwanted bugs in your home or garden.
4. Common Misconceptions:
- Both creatures are often surrounded by myths, such as the false belief that they have highly venomous bites (neither poses a serious threat to humans).
Habitats of Cellar Spiders and Daddy Long Legs
Understanding where these creatures live can help you identify them more easily and keep them out of your home.
Cellar Spider Habitats
Indoors:
- Found in basements, attics, and closets.
- Prefer damp, dark, and undisturbed areas.
Web Locations:
- Often build their webs in corners, under furniture, or along ceilings.
- Their webs can look messy and irregular.
Daddy Long Legs Habitats
Outdoors:
- Found in gardens, forests, and under rocks or logs.
- Prefer moist environments but can also tolerate dry areas.
Indoors:
- Occasionally wander into homes but do not stay for long.
- Seen in garages, sheds, or near entryways.
Key Fact: If you’re dealing with cobwebs indoors, it’s probably a cellar spider. If you’re spotting long-legged creatures outdoors, they’re likely daddy long legs.
Final Thoughts
Cellar spiders and daddy long legs are fascinating creatures with unique characteristics. While they may look alike, they are very different in terms of their body structure, behavior, and habitats. By learning to tell them apart, you can better understand these animals and appreciate the roles they play in controlling insect populations. And remember, both are harmless and don’t mean any harm to humans!
