Funnel-Web Spiders in the Lawn: Beneficial, Not a Problem

Sheet-like webs with a funnel retreat appearing on dewy mornings are the work of grass spiders (family Agelenidae). They are harmless, beneficial predators.

What You're Seeing

These spiders build non-sticky horizontal sheets with a funnel at one edge. They wait inside the funnel; when prey lands on the sheet, they rush out, bite, and drag it back. The webs are nearly invisible until highlighted by dew.

Why They're Good

• They consume large numbers of lawn insects (gnats, mosquitoes, aphids, caterpillars).
• They rarely enter homes.
• They bite only if provoked; venom is not medically significant.

No Control Needed

These spiders indicate a healthy ecosystem. Insecticides would kill them and their prey, disrupting natural balance. Simply enjoy the dew-jeweled webs on summer mornings—an old saying claims they foretell a beautiful day.