Black House Spider Information

Black house spiders most commonly live in southern and eastern Australia, though they have been found in the United States as well. These spiders make funnel-like webs that sometimes are mistaken for funnel spider's webs. They are usually timid spiders and unlikely to bite humans, especially unprovoked.

Size and Appearance

• Female black house spiders are almost twice as large as male spiders, usually a little less than three-quarters of an inch long. Their bodies are black to dark brown, with a charcoal gray abdomen and white v-like markings on their backs.

Webs

• These spiders form untidy, lacy webs with funnel-like entrances. Sometimes several funnels are formed and that lead to a flat retreat. Females never leave the web unless they are forced. Webs may have a gray, ragged appearances due to constant repairs by the female.

Life Cycle

• Females lay eggs and stay with them until they hatch. Spiders usually mature in the summer and typically live about two years.

Mating

• Males come to the webs to mate with females. They pluck on the web until the female gives them the signal to advance. They may stay together for several days and mate several times.

Homes and Prey

• Spiders usually live in the bark of unhealthy trees. Sap helps them attract prey such as bees, flies, butterflies and beetles. In the home, spiders live in dark crevices or window sills.

Bites

• Black house spiders are usually docile and unlikely to bite. Bites can be very painful and cause swelling and redness. More rarely, victims experience nausea, vomiting, and sweating. Treat bites with a cold pack and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.