Hentz Orb-weaver, Spotted Orb-weaver, Barn Spider
Neoscona crucifera
Araneidae (Orb-weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A robust spider with a large, globose abdomen that is somewhat triangular or heart-shaped when viewed from above. The body is covered in fine, bristly white hairs (setae) giving it a fuzzy appearance. Females are significantly larger and more bulbous than males.
Size Estimate
The specimen appears to be an adult female; body length typically ranges from 10-20mm (0.4-0.8 in) with a leg span reaching up to 50mm (2 in).
Coloration & Markings
Variable colors ranging from tan to rusty reddish-brown. The dorsal side of the abdomen often features a faint cross-like pattern or a series of zig-zags. The underside typically has two white spots/commas against a dark background.
Web Type
Large, classic vertical orb web (wheel-shaped). These spiders often rebuild their webs daily, typically at dusk, and may consume the old silk to recycle proteins.
Eye Arrangement
Eight eyes arranged in two rows; the four median eyes form a central trapezoid (median ocular quadrangle) characteristic of the Araneidae family.
Leg Characteristics
Strong, moderately long legs with distinct spines. Often exhibits dark banding or 'socks' at the joints; typically poses with legs pulled in close when resting in a retreat.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses a weak neurotoxic venom intended for paralyzing small insects; the venom is not considered medically significant to humans.
Medical Significance
Harmless to humans. Bites are rare and only occur if the spider is pinched or handled roughly. Symptoms are generally milder than a bee sting, involving localized redness or minor swelling.
Safety Recommendations
No action is usually needed. If the web is in an inconvenient spot, use a broom to gently relocate the spider to a nearby bush. Do not use pesticides as they are beneficial roommates.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Found throughout North America (specifically common in the Eastern and Central US) and parts of Mexico. Preferred habitats include woodland edges, gardens, and man-made structures like the wooden bench/eave shown here.
Behavior & Temperament
Primarily nocturnal, though often visible in the center of the web at dusk. They are docile and non-aggressive, usually dropping or retreating if disturbed. They act as sit-and-wait predators.
Diet & Prey
Generalist insectivore; consumes moths, flies, beetles, and other flying insects that become entangled in the sticky radial lines of the orb web.
Seasonal Activity
Populations peak in late summer and early autumn (August through October), which is why they are often mistakenly called 'October Spiders'.
Description
The Hentz Orb-weaver is one of the most common and beneficial garden spiders in North America. Known for their impressive engineering skills, they create large, intricate webs that glisten in the evening light, serving as vital natural pest control for homeowners.
Key Features
Hairy/fleece-like texture on the cephalothorax, large bulbous abdomen with a subtle cross pattern, and the tendency to build webs near porch lights or wooden trim.
Similar Species
Araneus diadematus (Cross Orb-weaver), which has more distinct white dots forming a cross, and Neoscona domiciliorum (Spotted Orb-weaver), which is usually smaller and more brightly colored.
Life Cycle
Mating occurs in late summer or autumn. Females lay several hundred eggs in a yellowish silk sac, which overwinter. Adults typically die after the first hard frost of the year.
Ecological Importance
Crucial for controlling populations of night-flying insects, including agricultural pests and mosquitoes. They serve as a food source for birds and wasps.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by the IUCN, but considered common and stable throughout its range with no immediate threats.
Interesting Facts
This species frequently exhibits 'phototaxis' behavior, building webs near artificial lights to capitalize on the higher concentration of insect prey attracted to the glow.
Photography Tips
To capture the identifying ventral spots, photograph from directly underneath. For the dorsal pattern, use a flash or side-lighting at dusk to highlight the fine hairs and abdominal texture.
Identified: 2026-07-09T01:28:23.597298