Spider webs are engineering marvels — and remarkably consistent within species. Identifying web type is a powerful diagnostic tool when the spider itself is hiding.
Orb Webs
The classic spiral wheel shape everyone pictures. Built by orb-weaver spiders (Araneidae family). Common orb-weavers include garden spiders (Argiope aurantia) which add a distinctive zigzag stabilimentum through the center.
Funnel Webs
Flat sheet of silk leading to a narrow funnel retreat. Built by funnel-web spiders (Agelenidae). The spider waits in the funnel and rushes out when prey falls onto the sheet.
Cobwebs (Tangle Webs)
The messy, three-dimensional tangles you find in house corners. Built by cobweb spiders (Theridiidae) — which includes black widows. Use our Spider Identifier for any spiders you encounter. Also see: Dangerous Spider Identification.
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