House Spider

Scientific Name: Tegenaria domesticus

Order & Family: Araneae, Agelenidae

Size: Body length 7-12 mm (females), 6-9 mm (males); leg span up to 45 mm

House Spider

Natural Habitat

Commonly found inside homes in corners, basements, attics, and cluttered areas. Also found outdoors under rocks, logs, and in sheds.

Diet & Feeding

Insectivorous. Feeds on various insects and other small arthropods that get caught in its web, such as flies, mosquitoes, and small beetles.

Behavior Patterns

Builds funnel-shaped webs to catch prey. Generally nocturnal and reclusive, often staying hidden during the day. Females remain in or near their webs, while males wander in search of mates. Non-aggressive, biting only when provoked or accidentally pressed against skin.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Bites are rare and generally harmless, causing mild local pain and redness, similar to a bee sting. Not considered medically significant. Benefits: Acts as a natural pest control by preying on common household insects.

Identified on: 9/13/2025