Giant House Spider
Eratigena duellica (formerly Tegenaria gigantea)
Agelenidae (Funnel Weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A large spider with a prominent cephalothorax and an elongated oval abdomen. It possesses a hairy texture (setae) and long, spindly legs that give it a substantial appearance. Females have a larger abdomen, while males have longer legs and enlarged pedipalps.
Size Estimate
Body length typically 10-18mm; including legs, the span can reach 75-100mm (3-4 inches). This specimen appears to be an adult.
Coloration & Markings
Generally earthy tones of brown, tan, and grey. The cephalothorax often features two dark longitudinal stripes, and the abdomen has a pale 'herringbone' or chevron pattern. The legs are usually solid brown without distinct banding.
Web Type
Funnel web. It consists of a flat, sheet-like silk platform leading into a silken tube or funnel where the spider retreats. Typically located in corners, behind furniture, or in dark crevices.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes of similar size arranged in two slightly curved rows of four. This setup provides excellent motion detection for ambush hunting.
Leg Characteristics
Notably long and thin compared to the body size. The legs are covered in fine hairs and lacks the heavy spines seen in wolf spiders. These long legs allow for incredible running speeds.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses a harmless neurotoxic venom used to subdue insects. It is not considered toxic to humans.
Medical Significance
Low medical significance. Bites are rare and usually cause only mild localized pain, redness, or swelling similar to a bee sting. No specialized treatment is required other than basic first aid.
Safety Recommendations
If found indoors, they can be safely relocated using the 'cup and cardboard' method. Wear gloves if handling woodpiles where they may reside.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Common across Europe and the Pacific Northwest of North America. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as basements, attics, sheds, and woodpiles.
Behavior & Temperament
Extremely fast runners and active hunters. They are generally shy and will retreat to their funnel if disturbed. They are not aggressive toward humans and usually bite only if pinched or handled roughly.
Diet & Prey
Primary diet consists of flies, moths, beetles, and even other spiders. They sit in their funnel and rush out with great speed to seize prey that vibrates the silk sheet.
Seasonal Activity
Most visible in late summer and autumn when males wander into open spaces looking for mates.
Description
The Giant House Spider is a common, large, and imposing sight in many homes. Despite its size and speed—being one of the fastest spiders in the world—it is a beneficial roommate that provides excellent pest control.
Key Features
Large leg span, brown mottled body, distinctive funnel-shaped web, and exceptional running speed.
Similar Species
Eratigena agrestis (Hobo Spider) which is smaller with shorter legs, and Tegenaria domestica (Common House Spider) which is much smaller.
Life Cycle
Females produce several brownish egg sacs containing up to 60 eggs each. Spiderlings emerge in spring. They can live for 2-3 years, with males often dying shortly after the autumn mating season.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an apex predator in the domestic 'basement' ecosystem, controlling populations of invasive insects and smaller spiders.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but populations are widespread and stable.
Interesting Facts
At one point, it held the Guinness World Record for the fastest spider, clocked at speeds of 1.73 feet per second.
Photography Tips
Capture the dorsal view to show the violin-like markings on the cephalothorax and the chevron patterns on the abdomen. Side shots are good for demonstrating leg length.
Identified: 2026-06-15T06:41:24.127022