Barn Funnel Weaver, Common House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
Agelenidae (Funnel-web weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
Robust body with a distinctly patterned cephalothorax and elongated, oval-shaped abdomen. Females are typically larger and sturdier, while males are slightly smaller with longer legs.
Size Estimate
Body length ranges from 6 mm to 14 mm, with a leg span reaching up to 30 mm to 45 mm.
Coloration & Markings
Brownish coloration with yellowish-grey markings. The cephalothorax features longitudinal stripes, and the abdomen displays a mottled or chevron pattern.
Web Type
Flat, horizontal sheet web that leads into a tubular retreat funnel where the spider hides, typically built in dark corners or floor junctions.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two slightly curved rows of four, typical of the Agelenidae family.
Leg Characteristics
Long, robust legs covered with fine hairs and distinct spines, often showing faint dark banding.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains mild, localized venom used primarily to immobilize insect prey. Not potent to humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are rare, occur only in self-defense, and produce mild symptoms similar to a minor mosquito bite.
Safety Recommendations
No special safety measures needed. Can be gently relocated using a cup and card if found in an unwanted area.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution. Prefers indoor human habitations, basements, sheds, and sheltered outdoor locations.
Behavior & Temperament
Timid and non-aggressive. Rapid runners when disturbed, quickly retreating into their funnel webs.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predator feeding on household insects such as flies, mosquitoes, roaches, and other small spiders.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, with males becoming most mobile and visible during late summer and autumn mating seasons.
Description
A common and harmless indoor resident, the Barn Funnel Weaver is an expert at constructing sheet webs in quiet corners of human dwellings, quietly managing indoor insect populations.
Key Features
Long spiny legs, distinctive funnel-shaped retreats, mottled brownish abdomen, and rapid running speed.
Similar Species
Eratigena atrica (Giant House Spider) and Tegenaria agrestis (Hobo Spider), distinguished primarily by subtle leg banding and localized geographic variations.
Life Cycle
Females produce disc-shaped egg sacs hidden near the web. Spiderlings hatch and disperse. Lifespan ranges from 1 to several years.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an effective natural pest control agent inside buildings and outhouses, keeping insect populations in check.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but highly abundant and widespread globally.
Interesting Facts
Despite their intimidating appearance and speed, they are beneficial house guests that rarely encounter humans and pose zero health risks.
Photography Tips
Use side lighting to highlight leg spining and body patterns. Maintain a calm distance to avoid triggering their flight response into the funnel.
Identified: 2026-10-01T12:06:37.097092