Hentz Orb-weaver, Barn Spider, Spotted Orb-weaver
Neoscona crucifera
Family Araneidae (Orb-weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A robust spider with a large, somewhat triangular or heart-shaped abdomen. The body is densely covered in fine gray-white hairs, giving it a somewhat fuzzy or velvety appearance. The cephalothorax is smaller and flatter compared to the bulbous abdomen.
Size Estimate
Based on the image, this appears to be an adult female; body length typically ranges from 9-20mm (0.35-0.8 inches) with a total leg span reaching up to 2 inches.
Coloration & Markings
Generally brownish to tan with a reddish hue. The dorsal side of the abdomen often features a faint cross-like pattern or a pale jagged stripe. The ventral (underside) of the abdomen usually has two white 'comma' markings pointing toward each other against a dark background.
Web Type
Large, vertical, organized orb web (spiral wheel shape). These spiders are known for building their webs at dusk near lights and frequently consuming them in the morning to recycle the silk, rebuilding again the following night.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows; the four median eyes form a central trapezoid that is characteristic of orb-weavers, helping them detect vibrations and light changes in their web.
Leg Characteristics
Strong, moderately long legs with distinct dark banding or rings. They are covered in short, stiff spines (macrosetae) used for grasping prey and navigating the silk threads without sticking.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Utilizes a mild venom designed to paralyze small insects. The venom is not considered medically significant to humans, possessing low toxicity to mammals.
Medical Significance
Harmless. A bite is comparable to a bee sting, resulting in minor localized redness and swelling. Medical attention is only necessary in the rare event of an allergic reaction.
Safety Recommendations
If the spider is in a doorway, it can be gently relocated by using a broom to move the attachment lines. They are not dangerous and will almost always choose to flee rather than bite.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Common across North America, particularly the Eastern and Central United States and parts of Mexico. They prefer wooded areas, gardens, and man-made structures like the stadium or bridge walkway seen in the photo.
Behavior & Temperament
Nocturnal hunters. They are generally docile and non-aggressive toward humans, typically retreating to a curled leaf or crevice during the day and sitting at the center of the web (the hub) at night.
Diet & Prey
Generalist insectivores. They feed on flying insects such as moths, beetles, flies, and mosquitoes that get entangled in the sticky radial threads of the orb web.
Seasonal Activity
Populations peak in late summer and early autumn (August through October) when they reach maturity and become most visible to the public.
Description
Featured here is a Hentz Orb-weaver, a classic sentinel of the night. Often found near artificial lights that attract their prey, these spiders are master architects, spinning intricate webs that can span several feet. They are a common sight on porches and industrial structures in late summer.
Key Features
Triangular abdomen with velvety gray hairs, dark-banded legs, and two pale markings on the underside. Their habit of building large webs in high-traffic human areas at night is a key behavioral diagnostic.
Similar Species
Neoscona domiciliorum (Spotted Orbweaver) which is more brightly colored, and Araneus diadematus (Cross Orbweaver), which has more distinct white spots forming a clear cross on the abdomen.
Life Cycle
Females lay several hundred eggs in a yellowish, fluffy silken sac in autumn. The spiderlings hatch in spring. Adults typically live for one season, dying after the first hard frost.
Ecological Importance
Critical natural pest controllers. A single spider can consume hundreds of mosquitoes and agricultural pests throughout its lifespan, serving as a vital link in the local food web.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but considered common and widespread with stable populations throughout their range.
Interesting Facts
The famous spider 'Charlotte' from E.B. White's Charlotte's Web was inspired by a member of the Araneus genus, but Neoscona crucifera is the species most frequently encountered performing similar web-building behaviors in the American suburbs.
Photography Tips
Since they are nocturnal, use a flash to highlight the gray hairs and leg bands. Positioning the camera to see the underside of the abdomen can help confirm the genus via the 'comma' markings.
Identified: 2026-07-19T03:27:46.478267