Barn Funnel Weaver, Common House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
Agelenidae (Funnel-Weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
Elongated body with a distinct oval abdomen and a somewhat flattened cephalothorax. The spinnerets at the rear of the abdomen are noticeably elongated, which is a hallmark of funnel-web weavers.
Size Estimate
Body length ranges from 6 to 14 millimeters, with a leg span reaching up to 30 to 40 millimeters. This specimen appears to be an adult or sub-adult based on body proportions.
Coloration & Markings
Mottled brown, beige, and dark grey coloration. The abdomen typically features distinct chevron or herringbone patterns, while the cephalothorax often displays lighter longitudinal stripes or darker markings.
Web Type
Builds a sheet-like web that extends into a tubular retreat or funnel in a corner, crack, or sheltered crevice where the spider waits for prey.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two slightly curved, compact rows across the front of the cephalothorax.
Leg Characteristics
Long, moderately slender legs featuring subtle dark banding or rings, covered in fine setae and spines that aid in detecting vibrations.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains mild venom used to subdue small insect prey. It is not considered dangerous or medically significant to humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are rare, typically only occurring in self-defense, and generally result in mild, localized discomfort similar to a mild mosquito bite.
Safety Recommendations
No special precautions needed beyond normal caution. If relocation is desired, gently guide the spider into a jar using a piece of cardstock and release it outdoors.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution worldwide. Frequently found inside human dwellings, basements, sheds, garages, barns, and protected outdoor crevices.
Behavior & Temperament
Timid and fast-moving. They rapidly retreat into their funnel web when disturbed and rarely bite unless directly trapped or squeezed.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predator feeding primarily on crawling insects, flies, moths, and other small arthropods that blunder onto the horizontal sheet web.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, with males becoming most noticeable in late summer and autumn as they wander in search of mates.
Description
The Barn Funnel Weaver is a common and harmless resident of human structures worldwide. Known for constructing characteristic sheet webs with a retreat in dark corners, this agile hunter plays a beneficial role in controlling household insect populations.
Key Features
Elongated posterior spinnerets, mottled brown and beige chevron patterning on the abdomen, and construction of a flat sheet web ending in a funnel retreat.
Similar Species
Eratigena atrica (Giant House Spider) which is noticeably larger, and various grass spiders (Agelenopsis spp.) which typically inhabit outdoor grassy areas.
Life Cycle
Females construct silk egg sacs near the retreat in late summer or autumn. Spiderlings emerge and disperse, undergoing multiple molts to reach maturity with a lifespan of several years.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an effective natural pest controller in homes and outbuildings, helping to manage populations of flies, roaches, and other household insects.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but highly secure and abundant globally due to close association with human habitats.
Interesting Facts
Despite their intimidating speed when running across a wall, these spiders have poor eyesight and rely almost entirely on detecting floor and web vibrations.
Photography Tips
Use macro lenses with good lighting from above or the side. Photographing the dorsal patterns and spinnerets helps confirm identification.
Identified: 2026-09-04T16:38:26.292876