Barn Spider, Spotted Orb-Weaver
Paratachydromia / Neoscona crucifera (Common Orb-Weaver)
Araneidae (Orb-Weavers), Order Araneae. Characterized by building vertical wheel-like webs.
Physical Description
Rounded, bulbous abdomen with distinct patterned markings, relatively small cephalothorax, typical orb-weaver body plan with stout proportions.
Size Estimate
Body length roughly 8 to 15 mm, with a leg span of 20 to 30 mm. This specimen appears to be an adult female.
Coloration & Markings
Tan or light brown base coloration with darker brown mottling and a distinct patterned folium on the dorsal abdomen featuring spots and faint chevron lines.
Web Type
Typical vertical orb web constructed at night, used to catch flying insect prey.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two rows, typical for the Araneidae family.
Leg Characteristics
Medium length legs with noticeable dark banding and spination, often held close to the body when resting or splayed out in defensive postures.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Mild venom used strictly to subdue small insect prey. Not harmful to humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are extremely rare, occur only in self-defense, and typically produce nothing more than minor, temporary localized discomfort.
Safety Recommendations
Leave undisturbed to benefit from natural pest control. Can be easily relocated using a cup and piece of paper if found indoors.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Found across North America, commonly inhabiting structures, barns, porches, gardens, and wooded edges.
Behavior & Temperament
Docile and non-aggressive. Nocturnal web-builders that often hide in a retreat or sit at the web hub during the evening.
Diet & Prey
Insects such as moths, beetles, flies, and mosquitoes caught in the orb web.
Seasonal Activity
Most active and noticeable during late summer and autumn when individuals reach full adult size and construct prominent webs.
Description
The Barn Spider is a familiar and beneficial garden resident, known for spinning large, intricate orb webs near outdoor lighting and structures to catch flying insects.
Key Features
Bulbous, patterned abdomen; vertical orb-weaving behavior; hairy or spiny banded legs; preference for building webs near human habitations.
Similar Species
Other orb-weavers such as Araneus diadematus (Cross Orb-Weaver) and Neoscona species, distinguished primarily by specific abdominal markings.
Life Cycle
Females produce silken egg sacs in autumn, which overwinter before spiderlings hatch in spring. Undergoes multiple molts to reach maturity by late summer.
Ecological Importance
Actively helps control populations of flying insect pests, serving as an important natural predator in gardens and around homes.
Conservation Status
Secure and widespread, with stable populations facing no significant conservation threats.
Interesting Facts
Orb-weavers often consume and rebuild their entire web nightly to maintain the stickiness and structural integrity of the silk.
Photography Tips
Use macro lenses with good side lighting to highlight the intricate patterns on the abdomen. Photograph at night when the spider is active on its web.
Identified: 2026-09-09T00:43:11.757412