The Barn Funnel Weaver (Tegenaria domestica) is a common resident found in homes and structures worldwide. Often called the domestic house spider, its presence and distinctive webs frequently cause concern. The fast-moving arachnid often leads people to question its potential danger. This article clarifies the safety status of the Barn Funnel Weaver and provides necessary information for identification and coexistence.
The Core Answer: Venom Status
The term “poisonous” is often mistakenly applied to spiders, which are, in fact, venomous. A venomous creature injects a toxin through a bite or sting, while a poisonous one harms you when ingested. Like nearly all spiders, the Barn Funnel Weaver possesses venom to subdue its insect prey. However, this spider is not considered medically significant to humans, meaning its venom does not pose a threat. The species is shy and non-aggressive, preferring to retreat when disturbed. There are no documented cases of serious medical issues resulting from a bite.
Identifying the Barn Funnel Weaver
Recognizing the Barn Funnel Weaver involves observing both the spider and its unique web structure. The spider has an elongated body; females measure between 7.5 and 11.5 millimeters in length, with males slightly smaller. Coloration is typically dark orange, brown, or beige, often with a mottled pattern of gray or black patches on the abdomen. The cephalothorax, the front body section, is reddish-brown and displays two pale gray longitudinal stripes. The legs are relatively long and spiny. The most reliable identification cue is the spider’s sheet-like web. This web features a dense, non-sticky horizontal silk mat connected to a narrow, funnel-shaped silk tube extending into a sheltered area. The spider waits inside this funnel retreat for prey.
Understanding the Bite and Symptoms
Bites from the Barn Funnel Weaver are extremely rare, typically occurring only when the spider is accidentally trapped against the skin, such as when putting on clothing. The fangs of this species are often too short or weak to penetrate human skin effectively. When a bite does occur, the reaction is usually mild and localized, comparable to a mosquito bite or a bee sting. Symptoms generally include minor, temporary discomfort, slight redness, and localized swelling at the site. Basic first aid involves cleaning the area with soap and water to prevent secondary infection. Applying a cool cloth or ice pack can help reduce minor pain or swelling. Medical attention should only be sought if symptoms worsen significantly, show signs of infection, or if a person develops a systemic reaction.
Habitat and Coexistence
The Barn Funnel Weaver is found globally, having established itself across North America and Europe, often living indoors year-round. They prefer dark, undisturbed, and moist areas, commonly making their homes in basements, crawl spaces, sheds, and behind furniture. The webs are frequently found in corners and crevices near the floor. These spiders are beneficial to the indoor environment because they prey on common household pests. To manage their presence, focus on simple exclusion methods, such as sealing cracks and crevices around doors and windows. Non-lethal removal is simple: the spider can be gently captured in a container and relocated outside, away from the structure.