Fauna
Arachnid · GBIF taxon 2158882

Spotted Orbweaver

Neoscona crucifera

Also known as Hentz Orbweaver, Barn Spider

Spotted orbweavers build intricate, wheel-shaped webs at dusk to catch nocturnal flying insects, often constructing them near porch lights and outdoor fixtures. Females possess a round, rusty-brown or tan abdomen marked with a subtle central cross and distinct yellow spots underneath. As winter approaches, mature females lay a silky egg sac in protected bark or eaves before completing their annual life cycle.

NocturnalWeb BuilderGarden Helper
Spotted Orbweaver reference1 / 7
Licensed referenceno rights reserved, uploaded by Mirko Schoenitz · cc0
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Moths
  • Flies
  • Mosquitoes
Predators
  • Birds
  • Spider Wasps
  • Lizards
ThreatsPesticide use, habitat loss, and accidental destruction of webs
HabitatsWoodlands, gardens, suburban yards, and structures near outdoor lights
Life span1 year
Classification
  1. OrderAraneae
  2. FamilyAraneidae
  3. GenusNeoscona
  4. SpeciesNeoscona crucifera
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance; bite is rare and medically harmless.
Responsible observation
  • Evening Observation: Look for these spiders around dusk as they construct fresh webs near illuminated outdoor lighting.
  • Coexistence: Leave webs intact in garden spaces where they provide natural control of pest insects like mosquitoes.
  • Flashlight Etiquette: Use a red or dimmed light while viewing to avoid disturbing their nocturnal hunting behavior.
Related species
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