Hentz Orb-weaver, Spotted Orb-weaver, Barn Spider
Neoscona crucifera
Araneidae (Orb-weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A robust spider with a bulbous, slightly triangular abdomen. The body is covered in fine, bristly white hairs, giving it a somewhat 'fuzzy' texture. Females are significantly larger and more rounded than males.
Size Estimate
Estimated body length 10-20mm for females, with a leg span reaching up to 50mm. This specimen appears to be an adult female based on the abdominal girth.
Coloration & Markings
Variable coloration ranging from tan to rusty red or grey. Typically features a pale cross-like pattern on the dorsal abdomen and distinct black and white/yellow 'comma' markings on the ventral side.
Web Type
Large, classic circular orb web, often exceeding 2 feet in diameter. They frequently build these webs near porch lights or across garden paths at dusk.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows. The four median eyes form a central trapezoid (median ocular quadrangle), typical of the Araneidae family for sensing movement.
Leg Characteristics
Strong, spiny legs with dark banding at the joints. The legs are often held in paired positions (front two pairs forward, back two pairs back) when resting in the web.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Neurotoxic venom optimized for paralyzing small insects. It is very low in potency regarding humans, comparable to a mild bee sting.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are rare and usually only occur if the spider is pinched against the skin. Symptoms include localized redness and minor swelling.
Safety Recommendations
No action is usually needed. If in an inconvenient spot, relocate using a jar and a piece of paper. They are excellent roommates for outdoor pest control.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Common across North America, particularly the eastern United States and Mexico. They thrive in woodland edges, gardens, and suburban backyards near man-made structures.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily nocturnal. They often consume their web each morning and rebuild it at night. They are non-aggressive and will typically drop from the web or retreat if disturbed.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predators that consume a variety of flying insects including moths, flies, beetles, and mosquitoes captured in their sticky silk.
Seasonal Activity
Most visible in late summer and autumn (August through October) when females reach their maximum size and begin egg production.
Description
An iconic late-summer spider, the Hentz Orb-weaver is a master architect of the night. Known for its large, intricate webs and fuzzy appearance, it is a staple of suburban autumns.
Key Features
Triangular abdomen, hairy body, dark leg bands, and the habit of building large webs at night near artificial lights.
Similar Species
Araneus diadematus (Cross Orb-weaver) which has a more distinct white 'cross' of dots, and Neoscona domiciliorum which has more vivid red markings on the femurs.
Life Cycle
Females lay several hundred eggs in a yellowish silk sac in autumn. Adults typically die after the first hard frost, while the eggs overwinter and hatch in spring.
Ecological Importance
Highly beneficial for natural pest control, significantly reducing populations of nuisance flies and agricultural pests in residential areas.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN; however, they are widely distributed and considered common with stable populations.
Interesting Facts
The genus name Neoscona is Greek for 'spinning anew,' referring to their habit of rebuilding their webs daily. They are often mistaken for the spider in 'Charlotte's Web'.
Photography Tips
Photograph at night with a flash to highlight the web. For ID, get a clear shot of the top of the abdomen and the underside median markings.
Identified: 2026-06-26T00:06:54.990079