Hentz's Orbweaver, Spotted Orbweaver, Barn Spider
Neoscona crucifera
Araneidae (Orb-weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A robust spider with a large, globose abdomen that is slightly pointed toward the rear. The body is covered in fine, bristly white hairs (setae) giving it a fuzzy appearance. Females are significantly larger than males, with thick cephalothoraxes and well-developed spinnerets.
Size Estimate
Females typically range from 10 to 20mm in body length with a leg span up to 50mm; males are smaller at 5 to 10mm. This specimen appears to be an adult female.
Coloration & Markings
Variable colors ranging from tan to rusty orange or brownish-grey. The dorsal side of the abdomen often features a faint cross-shaped pattern or wavy markings. The ventral (underside) typically shows two white 'broken' spots or 'L' shapes flanking a dark central area.
Web Type
Large, vertical, classic orb-style web. Often built near porch lights or under eaves. These spiders are known for consuming their web each morning and rebuilding a fresh one every evening.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows of four. The median eyes form a middle trapezoid, while the lateral eyes are positioned further back on small tubercles, typical of orb-weavers to provide a broad field of vision.
Leg Characteristics
Strong, hairy legs with distinct dark banding or 'rings' at the joints. They possess three claws on each foot to help them navigate the complex silk of their webs.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains mild neurotoxins designed to immobilize small insects. The venom is not considered dangerous to humans or pets and is comparable in effect to a mild bee sting.
Medical Significance
Low medical significance. Bites are rare and usually only occur if the spider is pinched or squeezed. Symptoms include localized redness, minor swelling, and mild pain that subsides within hours.
Safety Recommendations
Leave them alone to handle your pest issues. If a web is in an inconvenient place, use a broom to gently relocate the spider to a nearby bush. Always look before walking through doorways at night during the fall.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Found throughout North America, particularly in the Eastern and Central United States and parts of Mexico. Preferred habitats include woodland edges, gardens, and human structures such as porches, barns, and fences.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily nocturnal. They sit in the center of the orb during the night and often retreat to a leaf or crevice during the day. Generally docile and non-aggressive, preferring to drop from their web or flee if disturbed.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predators targeting flying insects like moths, beetles, crane flies, and mosquitoes. They use vibrations in the silk to locate snagged prey, which they then wrap in silk and bite.
Seasonal Activity
Maximum activity occurs in late summer and early autumn (August to October) when females are at their largest and most visible.
Description
The Hentz's Orbweaver is a hallmark of late summer nights. Known for spinning massive, perfect geometric webs across porch entryways, these fuzzy spiders are industrious architects that provide excellent natural pest control. Their golden-brown hues and active evening behavior make them a favorite for backyard observation.
Key Features
Hairy/fuzzy body, nocturnal activity, large orb web, and the diagnostic 'broken' white markings on the underside of the abdomen.
Similar Species
Araneus diadematus (Cross Orbweaver) has more distinct white spots forming a clear cross. Neoscona domiciliorum has more vibrant coloring and different ventral markings.
Life Cycle
Females lay egg sacs containing hundreds of eggs in late summer or autumn. The spiderlings hatch and disperse via ballooning in the spring. Adults typically live for one season, dying after the first hard frost.
Ecological Importance
Highly beneficial for pest management; a single spider can consume hundreds of flying insects over its lifespan, reducing populations of mosquitoes and agricultural pests.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN, but considered common and stable throughout its range.
Interesting Facts
The genus name Neoscona comes from the Greek for 'spinning' or 'dusting.' This species is often confused with the spider from 'Charlotte's Web,' though that was technically an Araneus cavaticus.
Photography Tips
Backlighting the web at night with a flashlight can make the silk glow and highlight the spider's silhouette. For identification, try to photograph the 'L-shaped' markings on the belly.
Identified: 2026-07-10T02:55:46.808915