Five common spiders species that can be found in and around homes include:
Garden Spiders– The garden spider has distinctive yellow and black markings on their abdomen and has a mostly white cephalothorax (head area). Males are 5-9mm and females are much larger at 19-28mm. These spiders build webs in the tall grasses of sunny fields and in the eaves of houses, garages, and sheds.
Wolf Spiders– Wolf spiders are a hairy spider that range in size from .04-1.38 inches in length. They are a solitary species that have excellent eyesight. Most wolf spiders create burrows that they hide in to wait for their prey that they will then pounce on and even chase for short distances. A wolf spider bite, while painful, does not pose a serious risk to humans.
House Spiders– As their name suggests, house spiders are the most common species of spider to be found in homes. House spiders are generally a yellow or tan color with dark spots on its body; they have long slender legs. House spiders pose no significant health risk to humans and are considered to be nuisance pests.
Black Widow Spiders– This is a poisonous species; they are glossy black in color with a reddish orange hour-glass shape on their belly. The venom from this spider will affect a person’s nervous system and immediate medical attention should be sought if bitten.
Brown Recluse Spider– Brown recluse spiders are a poisonous spider. They are tan to dark brown in color with a distinctive dark violin shape found behind their head. A bite from a brown recluse could cause an ulcer to form at the site of the bite and can lead to more serious necrosis of the tissue; medical attention should be sought if you are bitten.
Why do I have a spider problem?
Spiders generally enter into homes in order to get out of the very hot, cold, or wet weather. They also enter into homes in order to build webs and hunt for their prey.
What kind of threat do spiders pose?
Most spiders are not aggressive but many will bite if they feel threatened. Some spider species are poisonous and their venom can cause serious medical issues in people if they are bitten.
How do I control spiders?
Since spiders are shy and elusive by nature, finding all spider hiding places in your home can be a difficult task. The best way to eliminate a spider problem in your home is with professional help. If you have spiders in your home, contact the professionals at Holder’s to provide you with safe and effective spider control solutions.