Fall’s hidden architects: funnel weavers in Minnesota gardens

As autumn settles over Minnesota, gardeners may encounter a silvery shimmer across their lawns and shrubs in the early morning light. On closer inspection, they find the handiwork of funnel weaver spiders—quiet, efficient predators that thrive in the cooling days of fall.

These spiders, members of the Agelenidae family, are best known for their distinctive webs—flat sheets with a funnel-shaped retreat tucked off to one side. The spider waits inside the funnel, ready to dash out and seize any insect that stumbles onto the web’s surface.

Where you’ll find them

Funnel weavers are common across Minnesota, especially in yards, parks, and roadside vegetation. Their webs often appear overnight, draped across grass, low shrubs, or tucked into corners of porches and windowsills. Morning de