There are many kinds of Web (or orb) Weaver spiders; most have a large abdomen and fairly long legs. They range in body size up to about an inch, and many have colorful markings. At least two varieties can inflict bites on humans, notably the Common Orb Weaver and the Jeweled Araneus. The many Web Weavers are the ones responsible for the beautiful spoke-patterned webs you see hanging between trees or shrubs. They are medium to large-sized, with a body of about a half-inch to an inch.

The Funnel Spider is the one that builds its web in a funnel shape. The spider hides at the back of the funnel when disturbed. They actually prey upon the Black Widow spider along with other insects on the ground.The Sheet Weaver is the one responsible for the beautiful webbing you see on the ground when looking out over a lawn or meadow on a moonlit night.It is easy to know when you have Web Weavers--you can clearly see their webs. The more webs you see, the more spiders you have. This also means their food supply is plentiful, i.e., the plant insects. Web Weaver spiders are a sign that the plant damage has probably already begun.

Life Cycle:

In the early fall, female Web Weavers place eggs in a cocoon about 3/4ths inch in size, hidden among leaves in a stiff web framework. The eggs hatch over the winter, but the young stay in the cocoon until warmer spring days when they emerge.