Spiders

What are spiders?

Spiders are common pests that can be found invading homes and businesses throughout the United States. Unlike many other pest species here in Florida, spiders aren't insects at all, but arachnids and are actually closely related to mites, ticks, and scorpions. All species of spiders have two body regions (cephalothorax and abdomen), eight legs, and fangs called chelicerae. And while most spiders have eight eyes, some species only have six. And just like many other pests, spiders come in a wide range of different sizes, colors, and markings. These pests are a predatory species and they play an important role in the ecosystem by helping to keep the populations of nuisance insects in check.

Two of the most common spider species that can be found invading homes and businesses here in Florida are wolf spiders and house spiders. As their name suggests, house spiders love the comfort of living inside homes and are the most likely reason there are spider webs in the corners of your home. Wolf spiders, on the other hand, are a large species of spider with stout bodies, long legs, and bodies that are covered in hair. And unlike house spiders, they don't build webs. Instead, they hunt and chase down their prey.

Are spiders dangerous?

Yes, spiders do have the potential to be dangerous. In fact, some spiders such as the black widow and brown recluse spider have venom that is strong enough to trigger serious health problems in people that may require medical attention. For this reason, it's important to be cautious when dealing with these pests. However, the good news is that most spiders we come across here in Florida are simply nuisance spiders and pose no significant threats to us. Both house spiders and wolf spiders are considered nuisance spiders.

Why do I have a spider problem?

Spiders can be found living on any property or inside any home that offers them a place to live and easy access to the insects that they feed on and often find their way inside while out searching for food. But spiders may also move indoors if large populations of the insects that they feed on such as flies, cockroaches, crickets, and other insects can also be found living inside your home. And this is especially true if the weather conditions outside become too hot, dry, wet, or otherwise unfavorable.

Where are spiders commonly found?

Outside, spiders typically prefer to create their webs or burrows in gardens, shrubs, bushes, overgrown vegetation, tall grasses, between rocks and stones, underneath decks and porches, and in woodpiles. Inside, both house spiders and wolf spiders prefer to hide out in dark, quiet, out-of-the-way places. Common nesting spots for spiders include corners of closets, in basements, in boxes, in clothing and shoes, under bedding, in potted plants, under furniture, in attics, behind wall voids, and underneath sinks.

How do I get rid of spiders?

The best way to find and eliminate all the spiders that are living and nesting throughout your home is to contact a pest control professional for assistance. Here at Reynolds Pest Management, our professionals will complete a pest analysis and evaluate points of access. Based on our findings, we'll create a treatment plan to eliminate the infestation and prevent future problems with spiders and other common household invaders. For professional spider control services, reach out to us at Reynolds Pest Management today!

How can I prevent spiders in the future? 

Spiders can be difficult pests to prevent, but the following tips can help to deter spiders from choosing your Florida property and home to invade:

• Remove piles of wood, fallen trees, and other piles of debris from your property.

• Place vegetable gardens a distance away from the outside of your home.

• Cut back tree branches and bushes that are touching the outside of your home.

• Seal gaps or cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.

• Make sure that weather stripping is in place around all exterior windows and doors.

• Place caps on chimneys and screens over all vents to eliminate pest entry points.

• Replace any torn window or door screens to keep spiders from wandering into your home while foraging for food.

• Get rid of water sources by making sure gutters are clear and repairing any leaky pipes, faucets, or fixtures.

• Reduce their food sources (insects) by putting into place a year-round professional pest control program from Reynolds Pest Management!