Spider Identification & Prevention

What Are Spiders?

Spiders are pests that we have a unique relationship with; they are both helpful and unwanted at the same time.

Spiders are predators and help control nuisance insects and gardens pests that could cause harm to plants and crops. However, when spiders take over our outdoor spaces or decide to move into our homes, they become unwanted pests like the insects they feed on.

Spiders are arachnids which means they have two body segments, eight legs, many eyes, and lack wings and antennae.

Are Spiders Dangerous?

There are dangerous spiders in our area; the most problematic spider is the black widow spider. Like all other spiders, Black widow spiders have venom to paralyze their insect prey.

However, unlike most spiders that only have venom strong enough to affect their small insect prey, they have venom strong enough to cause harm to people. Though black widow spiders aren’t aggressive, symptoms could become severe enough to require medical attention if an accidental bite were to occur.

What Attracts Spiders to a Home?

Several factors can attract spiders to a home. Understanding these factors can help you take preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of a spider infestation:

• Abundant Prey: Spiders are attracted to places where they can find an ample supply of insects to eat. If your home has a high population of insects, spiders may be drawn to the potential food source.
• Warmth: Spiders are cold-blooded creatures, and many species are attracted to warmth. In cooler weather, they may seek shelter indoors to stay comfortable.
• Shelter and Hiding Places: Clutter, piles of debris, and dark, undisturbed areas provide ideal hiding spots for spiders. They seek shelter in such places to build their webs and lay eggs without disturbance.
• Moisture: Some spider species are attracted to damp or humid environments. Leaky pipes, standing water, or high humidity levels can create favorable conditions for spiders.
• Outdoor Lighting: Insects are drawn to outdoor lights, and spiders follow the insect activity. If your home has bright outdoor lighting, it may attract spiders seeking to catch prey.
• Plants and Vegetation: Gardens and landscaping close to your home can create a spider-friendly environment, especially if there are many insects around. Tall grass, shrubs, and overgrown vegetation provide hiding spots for both spiders and their prey.
• Open Windows and Doors: Spiders can enter homes through open windows and doors. They may be attracted by lights indoors and accidentally find their way inside.
• Pet Food: If you have pet food stored openly, it can attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. Consider keeping pet food in sealed containers to minimize potential food sources for spiders.
• Lack of Regular Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and debris provide suitable surfaces for spiders to anchor their webs. Regular cleaning can help eliminate these potential nesting sites.
• Unused or Infrequently Used Areas: Spaces that are rarely disturbed, such as basements, attics, or storage areas, can become attractive to spiders. Regularly clean and organize such areas to reduce potential hiding spots. 

To minimize the attraction of spiders to your home, it's essential to address these factors. Regular cleaning, proper sealing of entry points, and pest control measures to reduce insect populations can significantly decrease the likelihood of a spider infestation.