Celaenia excavata is found throughout large parts of eastern and southern Australia and have also been recorded in central Australia; they are also seen in suburban gardens.

Up to 13 sacs are silked together in a group, beneath which the spider may be found awaiting prey.

[1] The bird dropping spider stays motionless on its web during the day, only hunting for prey at night.

When a moth comes near, the spider will capture it with its powerful front legs.

Under the New Zealand Threat Classification System, this species is listed as "Introduced and Naturalised" with the qualifier of "Secure Overseas".