Spotted Orbweaver
Neoscona crucifera
What it is
Neoscona crucifera is an orb-weaver spider in the family Araneidae. It is found in the United States from Maine to Florida in the east, to Minnesota in the Midwest, to Arizona in the southwest, and in Mexico. Its common names include Hentz orbweaver, spotted orbweaver, and barn spider, though the latter nickname suggests the confusion that can result from using common names for spiders, as the name "barn spider" is also commonly used for the species...
Where and when to find it
- Habitat
- Widespread across the United States, commonly found in gardens, forests, fields, and around homes.
- How to find it
- Look for their large, circular webs strung between plants, trees, or structures. You'll often find the spider waiting in the center or nearby.
- Best time of day
- Dusk or night is when they build webs. They are visible during the day as well, especially in late summer and fall.
How it lives
- What it eats
- Flying insects like moths, flies, and mosquitoes.
- What eats it
- Birds, lizards, wasps, and other spiders.
Worth knowing
- They usually rebuild their webs every night.
- The markings on their back can vary quite a bit, making each one unique.
- Females are much larger than males.
- They are harmless to humans.
- Sometimes they shake their web to scare away predators.
- Their silk is very strong and sticky.
Why it matters
Spotted orbweavers are important predators of flying insects. They help control pest populations in gardens and natural areas.