Spotted Orb-weaver, Hentz's Orb-weaver, Barn Spider
Neoscona crucifera
Araneidae (Orb-Weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A robust spider with a large, globose abdomen that is slightly flattened. The surface is covered in fine, bristly hairs (setae). Females are significantly larger and rounder than males.
Size Estimate
Body length 9-20mm for females; leg span approximately 30-50mm. This appears to be an adult female.
Coloration & Markings
Variable coloration from tan to reddish-brown. The abdomen features a dorsal pattern resembling a cross or 'crucifer', framed by wavy dark lines. The underside usually has two white spots shaped like inverted commas separated by a dark area.
Web Type
Large, classic vertical orb web. Webs are often built at night and can be up to 2 feet in diameter, usually placed near porch lights or between trees.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows of four. The median eyes form a trapezoid, while the lateral eyes are positioned on small tubercles, typical of orb-weavers.
Leg Characteristics
Relatively thick legs with prominent, dark-tipped spines (macrosetae). Legs often show faint banding or uniform reddish-brown coloration and are held in a characteristic 'X' or curved posture.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains mild, protein-based venom designed for paralyzing small insects. It is not considered toxic or dangerous to humans.
Medical Significance
Low significance. Bites are extremely rare and typically result in no more than mild localized pain, itching, or redness, comparable to a mild bee sting.
Safety Recommendations
No action is typically needed. If the web is in a high-traffic doorway, relocate the spider using a cup and card. Wear gloves if handling directly, though they are reluctant to bite.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Found throughout North America, particularly in the Eastern and Central regions. Common in gardens, woodlands, and around human structures like barns, porches, and fences.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily nocturnal; it often hides in a retreat during the day and sits in the center of the web (the hub) at night. Docile and non-aggressive, usually dropping or fleeing if disturbed.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predator of flying insects including moths, beetles, flies, and mosquitoes. It wraps prey in silk before delivering a paralyzing bite.
Seasonal Activity
Most visible in late summer and autumn (August through October) when they reach full adult size and are actively mating.
Description
A classic nocturnal hunter found in many American backyards. This spider is famous for its industrious web-building, often spinning a massive, intricate geometric trap every single evening only to consume it and start over the next night.
Key Features
Reddish-brown hairy body, cruciform pattern on the dorsal abdomen, and the habit of being visible in the center of a web only after dark.
Similar Species
Neoscona domiciliorum (which has brighter white markings) and Araneus diadematus (Cross Orb-weaver, which has more distinct white dots forming a crisp cross).
Life Cycle
Females lay several hundred eggs in a fluffy, yellowish silk sac in late autumn. Adults usually die after the first frost; spiderlings emerge in spring and disperse via ballooning.
Ecological Importance
Highly beneficial for natural pest control. A single spider can consume hundreds of mosquitoes and garden pests over its summer lifespan.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN, but widespread and common with stable populations.
Interesting Facts
This species frequently consumes its own web at dawn to recycle the proteins. It was once thought to be the species featured in Charlotte’s Web (though that was likely Araneus cavaticus).
Photography Tips
Shoot at night using a flash to highlight the dorsal markings and the structure of the web. Focus on the cephalothorax to capture eye arrangement.
Identified: 2026-07-10T03:00:24.273681