Hobo spider vs Barn funnel weaver
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a hobo spider from a barn funnel weaver, and whether either one bites or stings.
Hobo spider
Eratigena agrestis
Barn funnel weaver
Tegenaria domestica
≠The key differences
Hobo spider (recently placed in Eratigena) is similar in color and habitat but tends to have different abdominal patterning and a slightly different web structure; identification often requires close examination by an expert.
⚖︎Side by side
| Hobo spider | Barn funnel weaver | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Mild bite | Mild bite |
| Size | 6-14 mm body length (females usually larger than males) | Body length about 6-12 mm; legspan up to about 50 mm |
| Colours | Light brown, Dark brown, Tan | Brown, Tan, Dark brown, Yellowish-tan |
| Family | Agelenidae | Agelenidae |
| Habitat | Undisturbed corners of buildings (basements, crawl spaces, garages, sheds), woodpiles, rock crevices and foundations; also in low vegetation in Europe. | Human structures (houses, barns, basements, garages), cellars, woodpiles and sheltered outdoor crevices |
| Range | Native to Europe and parts of Asia; introduced and established in western North America (Pacific Northwest, some inland areas). | Native to Europe; widely introduced and common in North America and other temperate regions, especially inside buildings |
| Active | Mostly active spring through autumn; nocturnal (most activity at night). | Nocturnal; active year-round indoors and outdoors mainly in summer-autumn for mating and dispersal |
| Pest? | Yes | No |
🔍How to spot a hobo spider
- Look for a horizontal sheet web with a silken funnel or tunnel at one edge where the spider hides.
- Body color brown to tan with darker abdominal markings; long legs compared with body length.
- Found in low, undisturbed corners of basements, sheds and around foundations rather than high ceiling corners.
🔍How to spot a barn funnel weaver
- Look for a horizontal sheet web with a funnel-shaped retreat tucked into a corner, gap or crevice.
- Body tan to brown with two dark bands on the cephalothorax and a mottled, chevron-marked abdomen; long legs ringed with darker bands.
- Found in undisturbed corners of basements, attics, barns and garages — typically inside human structures.
- Males are more slender with proportionally longer legs and may be seen wandering in late summer.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a hobo spider and a barn funnel weaver?
Hobo spider (recently placed in Eratigena) is similar in color and habitat but tends to have different abdominal patterning and a slightly different web structure; identification often requires close examination by an expert.
Is a hobo spider or a barn funnel weaver more dangerous?
Hobo spider: Mild bite. Barn funnel weaver: Mild bite. Bites are uncommon and typically occur if the spider is trapped against skin. Not dangerous to humans.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.