Barn Funnel Weaver, Common House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
Agelenidae (Funnel-Weavers), Order Araneae. Key family characteristics include elongated posterior spinnerets and three-clawed tarsi.
Physical Description
Elongated body shape with a distinct cephalothorax and oval-shaped abdomen. The spider is covered in fine, velvety hairs and appears robust, with prominent spinnerets visible at the rear of the abdomen.
Size Estimate
Body length typically ranges from 6 to 12 mm for females, with a leg span reaching up to 20 to 30 mm. This appears to be an adult specimen.
Coloration & Markings
Base coloration is brown to dark grey, featuring distinctive yellowish-brown or mottled markings on the abdomen, and subtle longitudinal stripes on the carapace.
Web Type
Builds a sheet web that funnels into a tubular retreat where the spider waits for prey, typically located in dark corners, basements, or window frames.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two slightly curved horizontal rows across the front of the cephalothorax.
Leg Characteristics
Legs are moderately long, sturdy, and covered in fine setae and visible spines with faint darker banding patterns.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Neurotoxic venom primarily used to immobilize small insect prey. It has very low potency relative to humans and is generally unable to pierce human skin effectively.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are extremely rare and typically result in only minor, temporary localized irritation if the spider is forcefully squeezed against the skin.
Safety Recommendations
No special safety measures required. If relocation is desired, gently guide the spider into a cup using a piece of cardstock and release it outdoors.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution worldwide. Prefers human-made structures, including houses, barns, cellars, and sheds, as well as sheltered outdoor niches.
Behavior & Temperament
Non-aggressive, highly reclusive nocturnal hunters. They typically retreat rapidly into their funnel webs when disturbed.
Diet & Prey
Feeds primarily on household insects such as flies, mosquitoes, roaches, and silverfish, subduing them with venom after they stumble onto the sheet web.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, with males becoming most mobile and noticeable in late summer and autumn as they search for mates.
Description
The Barn Funnel Weaver is a familiar and harmless indoor resident known for crafting intricate sheet webs with retreat tunnels in quiet corners of buildings. Though their presence can startle homeowners, they act as diligent pest controllers.
Key Features
Elongated spinnerets at the rear of the abdomen, brown mottled dorsal patterns, and construction of a flat sheet web ending in a funnel retreat.
Similar Species
Eratigena atrica (Giant House Spider) and other agelenids, distinguished primarily by overall size and subtle genital or pattern variations.
Life Cycle
Females produce disc-shaped silk egg sacs in autumn, guarding them until they hatch. Spiderlings disperse in spring. Lifespan typically ranges from 1 to 2 years.
Ecological Importance
Serves as an effective natural pest control agent within human dwellings and agricultural outbuildings, helping regulate insect populations.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but highly abundant and widespread globally with stable populations.
Interesting Facts
Despite their intimidating appearance, these spiders prefer fleeing to fighting and contribute significantly to controlling indoor insect pests.
Photography Tips
Use natural or diffused macro lighting to highlight the dorsal patterns and distinct spinnerets. Maintain a steady hand and photograph from above while the spider rests in its web.
Identified: 2026-09-17T19:22:48.300485