Community identification
Hentz Orbweaver
Neoscona crucifera
- Order & Family
- Araneae, Araneidae
- Size
- Females reach 9 to 18 millimeters, while males are slightly smaller at 8 to 15 millimeters.
Natural Habitat
Found in gardens, woodlands, and around human structures, often building large vertical orb webs.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous, feeding primarily on flying insects trapped in its web such as moths, beetles, and flies.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal hunters that rebuild their circular webs nightly and often hide in nearby foliage during daylight.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans with mild venom; highly beneficial for controlling pest insect populations in gardens.