Barn Funnel Weaver, Common House Spider
Tegenaria domestica
Agelenidae (Funnel-Weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
Elongated body with a distinct, patterned cephalothorax and an oval-to-elongated abdomen. The surface is covered in fine setae giving it a velvety texture, and the spinnerets at the rear of the abdomen are noticeably prominent and extended.
Size Estimate
Body length ranges from 6 to 12 millimeters, with a leg span reaching up to 25 to 45 millimeters.
Coloration & Markings
Mottled brown, beige, and dark grey coloration with distinctive longitudinal stripes on the cephalothorax and a chevron or herringbone pattern running down the length of the dorsal abdomen.
Web Type
Constructs a flat, sheet-like funnel web in corners, crevices, or near ground level, terminating in a tubular retreat where the spider waits for prey.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two slightly curved, roughly parallel horizontal rows.
Leg Characteristics
Long, tapering legs with distinct dark banding, covered in fine hairs and spines, typically held spread out wide when resting on its web.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Neurotoxic venom specialized for subduing small insect prey; poses no significant threat to humans or pets.
Medical Significance
Not medically significant. Bites are extremely rare, typically only occurring if the spider is directly squeezed against human skin, resulting in minor, localized discomfort similar to a mild bee sting.
Safety Recommendations
No special safety measures are required. If relocation is desired, gently guide the spider into a container using a piece of cardstock and release it outdoors.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution worldwide, frequently found in human habitations such as basements, garages, barns, and sheds, as well as dark, protected natural cavities.
Behavior & Temperament
Reclusive, nocturnal ambush predator that remains hidden inside its funnel retreat until vibrations signal trapped prey; timid and prone to fleeing rather than aggression.
Diet & Prey
Insects and other small arthropods including flies, mosquitoes, roaches, and beetles caught in the sheet web.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, with mature males becoming particularly mobile and visible during late summer and autumn as they search for mates.
Description
The barn funnel weaver is a ubiquitous and harmless household resident, expertly crafting intricate sheet webs that end in cozy retreats. While its dark silhouette and quick movements can startle homeowners, it serves as a valuable natural pest controller.
Key Features
Prominent rear spinnerets, characteristic chevron markings on the abdomen, and the construction of flat sheet webs with a funnel-shaped retreat.
Similar Species
Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis) and Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica); distinguished primarily by subtle genital differences and more localized distributions.
Life Cycle
Females produce disc-shaped silk egg sacs in autumn, guarding them until they hatch into spiderlings that disperse via ballooning or crawling; adults can live for several years.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an effective natural population control agent for common household insect pests and serves as a food source for larger predators like birds and rodents.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but highly secure and abundant globally due to its close association with human structures.
Interesting Facts
Despite their intimidating speed, these spiders have very poor eyesight and rely almost entirely on detecting vibrations through the silk threads of their webs.
Photography Tips
Use macro lenses with adequate lighting to capture the fine abdominal chevron patterns and visible spinnerets from a dorsal or slightly angled lateral perspective.
Identified: 2026-10-08T19:22:16.323569