Articles

Barn Funnel Weaver Spider

This funnel weaver is found throughout most of the United States, most notably in sheds and barns, in the crevices of doors, and under rocks and boards.
Updated:
November 18, 2022

Agelenidae—Funnel Weavers

Tegenaria domestica

While not commonly encountered in some areas, this species is found throughout most of the United States, most notably in sheds and barns, around and in the crevices of doors, as well as in the cracks of rock faces and under rocks and boards.

Description

The female barn funnel weavers range from 7.5 to 11.5 millimeters and the males range from 6 to 9 millimeters in length. The cephalothorax is a red-brown with a covering of pale-yellow hairs and two pale-gray longitudinal lines. The abdomen ranges from a pinkish to a pale flesh color with a pattern of gray to black patches. The legs are spiny with very pale gray annulations at the distal end of the femurs.

The webs are similar to those made by the grass spiders, but they are typically smaller in diameter with the retreat within the web sheet rather than off to one side.

Life History/Behavior

These spiders have been reported to live for as long as seven years, producing upward of nine egg sacs. The sacs are placed in many different locations close to the web, often suspended above the web from silk lines. The males are frequently found on the web along with the female during the mating season from May through July. These spiders can be found in structures anytime during the year.

Medical Importance

Like their cousins the grass spiders, these spiders are extremely fast and shy. Although there are no documented cases of bites from barn funnel weavers, it seems reasonable to assume they would not produce symptoms greater than the grass spiders regarding pain, swelling, redness, itching, and duration of symptoms.

Reference

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Steve Jacobs
Former Sr. Extension Associate
Pennsylvania State University