Furrow Orb Weaver
Larinioides cornutus
ORB WEAVER FAMILY (Araneidae)
A medium sized orb weaver about 1/2 inch long (13 mm) with a distinctive pattern on the abdomen. Males are only slightly smaller than females and identically marked. Generally brown varying from dark to light in different individuals. Legs are banded brown and black. Cephalothorax is covered in short, blond hair.
The Furrow Orb Weaver ranges throughout North America and down into Central America. They are common and can be found in most habitats including porches and under eaves. They are strictly nocturnal so not likely to be seen during the day. They hide in crevices and foliage during the day.
Although venomous this spider is harmless to humans. There are about 3,500 species of orb weavers worldwide and about 180 species in North America. There are three species in the genus Larinioides in North America.
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