Barn Funnel Weaver, Barn Spider, Common House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
Agelenidae (Funnel Weavers), Order Araneae. Key family characteristics include three pairs of spinnerets with the posterior pair noticeably elongated, and characteristic funnel-shaped webs.
Physical Description
The spider has a distinct, elongated oval abdomen and a robust, slightly tapered cephalothorax. The body texture appears somewhat smooth with fine hairs. The proportions show moderately long, robust legs typical of wandering and web-dwelling funnel weavers.
Size Estimate
Body length is approximately 7 to 14 millimeters, with a total leg span reaching up to 30 to 45 millimeters, typical for an adult or sub-adult specimen of this species.
Coloration & Markings
Base coloration ranges from yellowish-brown to dark brown. The abdomen features distinctive alternating dark and light chevrons or mottled longitudinal striping, while the cephalothorax typically displays darker longitudinal stripes.
Web Type
Builds a horizontal, sheet-like web that funnels into a tubular retreat where the spider waits for prey, usually constructed in dark, sheltered corners near the ground.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two slightly curved horizontal rows across the front of the cephalothorax.
Leg Characteristics
Long, tapering legs featuring visible dark banding and numerous spines, held in a sprawling posture typical of agelenids.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Neurotoxic venom used primarily to subdue insect prey. It is of low potency to humans and not considered dangerous.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. A bite is extremely rare, usually only occurring if the spider is trapped directly against the skin, and typically results only in mild, temporary localized irritation.
Safety Recommendations
Avoid direct handling with bare hands. If relocation is necessary, use a glass and a piece of card to safely move the spider outdoors or to an outbuilding.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution. Prefers dark, undisturbed indoor and outdoor microhabitats such as basements, cellars, crawlspaces, barns, sheds, and woodpiles.
Behavior & Temperament
Timid and fast-moving. Primarily nocturnal, preferring to retreat rapidly into its funnel web when disturbed. Not aggressive toward humans.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predator feeding on crawling insects such as beetles, roaches, silverfish, and other spiders trapped on its sheet web.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, with males becoming most noticeable in late summer and autumn as they wander in search of mates.
Description
The Barn Funnel Weaver is a familiar basement dweller, known for spinning dense, flat webs in dark corners. Though their fast movements can startle homeowners, they are harmless pest controllers that rarely bite.
Key Features
Elongated posterior spinnerets, characteristic chevron markings on the abdomen, and placement inside a horizontal funnel-shaped web.
Similar Species
Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis) and Giant House Spider (Eratigena duatrica). Distinguishing requires close examination of genitalia or subtle color and geographic variations.
Life Cycle
Females construct disc-shaped silken egg sacs in hidden areas near the web. Spiderlings hatch and disperse. Mating occurs primarily in late summer and autumn. Lifespan typically ranges from one to several years.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an effective natural pest controller in homes, outbuildings, and agricultural structures by consuming household insect pests.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but populations are secure, widespread, and abundant globally.
Interesting Facts
Despite their intimidating speed, these spiders have very poor eyesight and rely almost entirely on vibrations transmitted through their webs to detect prey and danger.
Photography Tips
Use macro lighting and maintain a steady hand or tripod. Capture dorsal views of the abdomen patterns and a clear profile to show leg spination and spinnerets.
User Notes
On floor in basement
Identified: 2026-09-10T22:30:53.599458