Barn Funnel Weaver, Barn Spider, Domestic House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
Family Agelenidae (Funnel-web weavers), Order Araneae. Key family characteristics include long spinnerets and a typical eight-eyed arrangement in two rows.
Physical Description
Elongated oval abdomen, distinct cephalothorax with subtle longitudinal dark stripes, covered in fine hairs, giving it a somewhat velvety texture.
Size Estimate
Body length around 6 to 12 mm for females, with a leg span reaching up to 45 mm. This specimen appears to be an adult.
Coloration & Markings
Mottled brown, beige, and grey coloration. The abdomen usually features distinct chevron or herringbone patterns, and the legs display alternating dark and light bands.
Web Type
Constructs a flat, sheet-like web that extends into a tubular retreat or funnel in a corner, crack, or crevice where the spider hides.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two slightly curved horizontal rows across the front of the cephalothorax.
Leg Characteristics
Long, robust legs with noticeable spines and distinct dark banding. Legs are typically held spread out wide on the surface to maximize vibration detection.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Mild venom primarily used to immobilize small insect prey. Not dangerous to humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are extremely rare and typically only occur if the spider is directly squeezed or trapped against skin. Symptoms are mild, similar to a minor insect sting.
Safety Recommendations
No specific safety precautions needed as they are harmless. If removal is desired, gently guide the spider into a cup using a piece of paper and release it outdoors.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution. Found in human dwellings, barns, cellars, sheds, and beneath rocks or woodpiles outdoors.
Behavior & Temperament
Timid and fast-moving. Rushes back into its funnel retreat when disturbed. Generally non-aggressive toward humans.
Diet & Prey
Insects including flies, mosquitoes, roaches, and moths caught via the sheet web and subdued with venom.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, but males become much more mobile and visible in late summer and autumn as they wander in search of mates.
Description
The Barn Funnel Weaver is a common fixture in outbuildings and homes around the world. With its brownish, patterned body and swift movements, it is a master hunter of indoor and structural pests, constructing subtle sheet webs that lead to dark retreats.
Key Features
Prominent long spinnerets visible at the rear of the abdomen, banded legs, chevron markings on the back, and association with a funnel-shaped web retreat.
Similar Species
Eratigena atrica (Giant House Spider) which is generally much larger, and wolf spiders which do not build funnel sheet webs.
Life Cycle
Females produce disc-shaped egg sacs in autumn, guarding them until they hatch. Spiderlings mature over one to two years, undergoing multiple molts.
Ecological Importance
Acts as a natural pest control agent in homes and barns by suppressing populations of flies, mosquitoes, and other nuisance insects.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but populations are extremely secure, widespread, and abundant globally.
Interesting Facts
These spiders are exceptional at surviving indoors away from natural humidity, often living for several years undisturbed in quiet corners of cellars and attics.
Photography Tips
Use a macro lens with adequate lighting. Take dorsal shots to clearly capture the abdominal chevron pattern and cephalothorax markings while maintaining a safe, calm distance.
Identified: 2026-08-31T19:23:33.275268