Hentz Orbweaver, Spotted Orbweaver, Barn Spider
Neoscona crucifera
Araneidae (Orb-weavers), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A robust orb-weaving spider with a large, bulbous, oval abdomen covered in dense, fine setae (hairs) giving it a fuzzy appearance. The cephalothorax is brownish with light pubesence. In this defensive posture, the legs are tucked closely around the carapace.
Size Estimate
Body length is approximately 10 to 15 mm for adult females (males are smaller at 5-9 mm), with a leg span of roughly 25 to 45 mm.
Coloration & Markings
Features reddish-orange upper leg segments (femora) contrasted with darker, banded lower leg segments. The abdomen displays mottled brownish, tan, and yellowish patterning with a subtle dorsal zig-zag or cross-like folium pattern.
Web Type
Large, classic vertical wheel-shaped orb web, often constructed at dusk and frequently rebuilt daily near outdoor lights or structures.
Eye Arrangement
Eight small eyes arranged in two transverse rows near the front of the carapace, typical of orb-weaving spiders.
Leg Characteristics
Distinctive bright reddish to orange coloration on the proximal leg segments (femora) with dark gray or black banding on the distal segments; covered in coarse sensory spines.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains mild neurotoxic and cytotoxic compounds specialized for immobilizing small insect prey. Harmless to humans and non-dangerous.
Medical Significance
Not medically significant. Bites are extremely rare and typically result in minor local swelling, mild redness, or slight discomfort comparable to a bee sting.
Safety Recommendations
No control measures necessary. If found indoors, safely capture using a cup and card and relocate outdoors near garden foliage.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Widespread across North America, particularly abundant in the central and eastern United States. Common in gardens, woodlands, fence lines, and near human structures like porches and barns.
Behavior & Temperament
Nocturnal web-builder that often hides in a retreat during the day or plays dead (thanatosis) when threatened on the ground, as seen here. Non-aggressive towards humans.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predator feeding primarily on flying insects including moths, mosquitoes, flies, beetles, and wasps trapped in its sticky web.
Seasonal Activity
Most noticeable in late summer through autumn (August to November) when mature females reach full size.
Description
Neoscona crucifera is one of the most common and recognizable autumn orb-weavers in North America. Known for its furry appearance, warm reddish leg coloration, and impressive aerial web engineering.
Key Features
Reddish-orange upper leg segments, fuzzy textured abdomen, two white or light spots on the ventral surface (if turned over), and a characteristic dorsal pattern.
Similar Species
Araneus cavaticus (Barn Spider), Araneus diadematus (Cross Orbweaver), and Neoscona domiciliorum (Redfemur Spotted Orbweaver). Distinguished by specific leg banding and abdominal markings.
Life Cycle
Females lay several hundred eggs wrapped in a spherical golden-silk egg sac during late summer or autumn. Adults die off before winter, and spiderlings emerge in spring.
Ecological Importance
Serves as an essential natural pest control agent by consuming large quantities of nocturnal flying insect pests around yards and gardens.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN; highly abundant and secure throughout its native range.
Interesting Facts
These spiders often consume their web at dawn to recycle the silk proteins and rebuild a fresh web every evening at dusk.
Photography Tips
Photograph at night while resting in the center of the web using a macro lens and soft flash, or capture dorsal details in daylight when resting.
Identified: 2026-07-24T01:04:17.767162