Hentz Orb-Weaver, Spotted Orbweaver
Neoscona crucifera
Family Araneidae (Orb-Weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
The spider has a rounded, somewhat hairy abdomen and a distinct cephalothorax typical of orb-weavers. Females are noticeably larger and more robust than males, featuring prominent spininess on the legs and a well-developed abdominal profile.
Size Estimate
Body length typically ranges from 9 to 19 mm for females, with a leg span reaching up to 35-40 mm. This specimen appears to be an adult or subadult.
Coloration & Markings
Coloration varies widely from reddish-brown to yellowish-orange or dark brown. The dorsal abdomen often displays a distinctive leaf-like or cross-like pattern, though it can sometimes be obscured by dense hair or lighting.
Web Type
Builds large, vertical orb webs constructed at night, typically measuring up to a foot or more in diameter, often placed near outdoor lighting, porches, or gardens to catch flying insects.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows of four, with the lateral eyes often touching or closely grouped, typical of the Araneidae family.
Leg Characteristics
Long, robust legs featuring noticeable spines, bristles, and subtle dark banding, held in a sprawling or defensive posture typical of resting orb-weavers.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Neurotoxic venom specialized for immobilizing small insect prey. It poses no chemical threat to humans.
Medical Significance
Not medically significant. Bites are extremely rare, usually only occurring if the spider is trapped directly against the skin, resulting in mild localized pain and swelling akin to a mosquito bite.
Safety Recommendations
No special safety measures required; if found indoors, easily relocated outside using a cup and a piece of paper.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Commonly found throughout North America, inhabiting gardens, woodlands, shrubs, and around human structures like porches, exterior walls, and eaves where night lights attract prey.
Behavior & Temperament
Nocturnal hunters that often sit in the center of their web at night or retreat to nearby foliage during the day. They are non-aggressive and will typically drop from the web or flee when disturbed.
Diet & Prey
Feeds primarily on flying insects such as moths, beetles, mosquitoes, and flies captured in their vertical orb webs.
Seasonal Activity
Most commonly observed in late summer and autumn when individuals reach adult size and are actively building large webs.
Description
The Hentz Orb-Weaver is a familiar and beneficial nocturnal visitor to many backyards. Recognized by its robust, hairy build and complex patterned abdomen, this spider spends its nights spinning magnificent geometric orb webs designed to intercept flying pests.
Key Features
Robust hairy body, distinctive dorsal abdominal patterns, strong leg spination, and the construction of classic vertical orb webs.
Similar Species
Other Araneus and Neoscona species, distinguished primarily by subtle variations in the dorsal leaf pattern and genital plate structures.
Life Cycle
Females construct silken egg sacs in sheltered cracks or vegetation in the autumn, depositing hundreds of eggs that hatch the following spring as spiderlings, which then disperse via ballooning.
Ecological Importance
Acts as a primary natural controller of flying insect populations, helping to reduce pests in gardens and around homes.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but populations are secure, abundant, and widespread.
Interesting Facts
Many orb-weavers consume and recycle their own webs nightly to recover proteins and moisture before spinning a fresh one.
Photography Tips
Use a macro lens with a flash for nighttime photography when the spider sits prominently in the center of its web, capturing the dorsal patterns clearly.
Identified: 2026-10-10T18:03:06.329368