Hentz Orb-Weaver, Spotted Orbweaver
Neoscona crucifera
Family Araneidae (Orb-Weavers), Order Araneae. Characterized by building vertical wheel-shaped webs and having eight eyes arranged in two rows.
Physical Description
Robust body with a rounded, bulbous abdomen and a distinct, hairy cephalothorax. The abdomen often has a slight posterior tapering or distinct folium pattern typical of orb-weavers.
Size Estimate
Body length ranges from 10 to 18 millimeters for females, with a leg span up to 30 to 40 millimeters. Appears to be a subadult or adult specimen.
Coloration & Markings
Variable coloration ranging from light brown, yellowish, to reddish-orange. The abdomen often features a distinct leaf-like pattern (folium) and faint transverse bands or spots.
Web Type
Vertical orb web constructed in evening hours, featuring a sticky spiral and a non-sticky hub where the spider typically waits upside down.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows of four, with lateral eyes often grouped together and median eyes set on a slight tubercle.
Leg Characteristics
Moderately long, robust legs with noticeable dark banding and prominent spines used for gripping web strands and subduing prey.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains mild neurotoxic venom tailored for paralyzing small insect prey; poses no threat to humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are extremely rare, occur only in self-defense when pressed against skin, and result in minor localized pain similar to a mild bee sting.
Safety Recommendations
Leave undisturbed as they are completely harmless and beneficial. Can be gently relocated using a cup and card if found in an inconvenient doorway.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Found throughout North America, frequently inhabiting gardens, woodland edges, porches, and exterior walls near outdoor lighting.
Behavior & Temperament
Docile and non-aggressive. Nocturnal builder that hides during the day or rests in the center of the web at night.
Diet & Prey
Feeds primarily on flying insects such as moths, beetles, mosquitoes, and flies captured in its orb web.
Seasonal Activity
Most active and visible during late summer and autumn when individuals reach full adult size and construct prominent webs.
Description
A common and beneficial nocturnal web-weaver often spotted resting on window screens or porches, drawing in flying pests.
Key Features
Rounded, hairy abdomen with variable brownish-orange tones, nocturnal web-building habit, and characteristic vertical orb web.
Similar Species
Araneus diadematus (Cross Orb-Weaver) and Neoscona domiciliorum (Red house spider). Distinguished by specific abdominal markings and habitat choices.
Life Cycle
Annual life cycle culminating in autumn. Females lay eggs in a silken cocoon attached to sheltered surfaces before dying with the first hard frost.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an effective natural pest control agent by significantly reducing flying insect populations around homes and gardens.
Conservation Status
Secure and widespread; not evaluated by the IUCN, with robust populations throughout its range.
Interesting Facts
Many orb-weavers consume their web nightly to recycle proteins before spinning a completely new one at dusk.
Photography Tips
Use a macro lens with a flash or external light source at night when the spider is active in its web for optimal detail.
Identified: 2026-09-21T19:45:45.939595