Barn Funnel Weaver, Domestic House Spider
Tegenaria domestica (likely)
Agelenidae (Funnel Weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
Cephalothorax is pear-shaped with a distinct groove (fovea). The abdomen is elongated-oval, covered in fine hairs giving it a matte appearance. This specimen appears slightly desiccated or curled.
Size Estimate
Body length 6-12mm for females, 6-9mm for males. Total leg span can reach 25-35mm. This appears to be an adult specimen based on proportions.
Coloration & Markings
Dull brownish-grey base with a pattern of dark chevrons on the abdomen. The cephalothorax features two longitudinal dark stripes. Legs show faint dark banding or mottling.
Web Type
Dense, flat sheet of non-sticky silk leading to a funnel-shaped retreat in a corner or crevice. Typically built in dark, undisturbed areas.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes in two nearly straight rows of four. The eyes are relatively similar in size, typical of Agelenids that rely on vibration rather than acute vision.
Leg Characteristics
Long, slender legs with noticeable spines. The banding or annulations on the legs are a hallmark of the genus Tegenaria, distinguishing it from some Eratigena species.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses a mild neurotoxic venom used to submerge insect prey. The venom is not considered medically significant to humans or larger pets.
Medical Significance
Harmless. Bites are rare and usually only occur if the spider is squeezed against skin. Symptoms are typically less severe than a bee sting, involving minor localized redness.
Safety Recommendations
If found indoors, they can be easily relocated using a cup and card. There is no need for chemical control; their presence indicates they are providing free pest management.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution; found worldwide. Prefers dark, damp, or secluded areas in houses, garages, barns, and crevices in rocks or trees.
Behavior & Temperament
Extremely shy and fast-moving. They are non-aggressive and will almost always retreat to their funnel if disturbed. They are active hunters within their web sheet.
Diet & Prey
Small insects like flies, moths, and mosquitoes that land on their silk sheet. They sense vibrations and rush out to bite and drag prey into the funnel.
Seasonal Activity
Year-round indoors. Males are most active and noticeable in late summer and autumn when they leave their webs to search for mates.
Description
The Barn Funnel Weaver is a ubiquitous resident of human dwellings. Unlike the more famous 'giant' house spiders, this species remains relatively modest in size and is often noticed only when its dusty funnel webs become visible in corners. It is a master of vibration detection, living its life in a silken lair waiting for a meal to stumble onto its doorstep.
Key Features
Checkered or chevron pattern on the abdomen, banded legs, and the presence of two dark longitudinal stripes on the cephalothorax.
Similar Species
Eratigena duellica (Giant House Spider) which is much larger and lacks leg banding; Lycosidae (Wolf Spiders) which have distinctly larger eyes and do not build webs.
Life Cycle
Females lay egg sacs in their funnel or nearby crevices. Spiderlings emerge and may stay in the web for a short period before dispersing. Lifespan is usually 1-2 years.
Ecological Importance
Highly beneficial for indoor pest control. They act as natural 'pest traps' for household nuisances like fungus gnats and flies.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN; stable and widespread due to its adaptability to human environments.
Interesting Facts
These spiders can survive for months without food or water. They are one of the most common spiders found in bathtubs because they fall in while seeking moisture and cannot climb the smooth porcelain walls.
Photography Tips
Focus on the dorsal (top-down) pattern of the abdomen and the stripes on the head. Use a macro lens to capture the leg banding and eye arrangement for definitive ID.
Identified: 2026-06-01T00:27:15.845266