Spiders
Spiders are one of the most common household pests, and while most species are harmless, their presence can still be unsettling for homeowners. With thousands of spider species found across the United States, understanding the differences between common house spiders and more concerning species is an important part of keeping your home safe and comfortable.
We cover everything you need to know about spiders, including how to identify common types, where they like to hide, what attracts them indoors, and when they may pose a risk. You’ll also find practical tips for prevention, guidance on what to do if you spot spiders in or around your home, and answers to common questions homeowners have about spider activity.
What are the common types of spiders?
There are many different spider species, but only a small number are commonly found in and around homes. Understanding the most common types of spiders can help you determine whether a spider is harmless or something that may require extra attention.
Some of the most common spiders homeowners encounter include:
- House Spiders: Small to medium-sized spiders that build messy webs in corners, basements, attics, and garages. They are generally harmless and help control other insects.
- Wolf Spiders: Large, fast-moving spiders that do not build webs. They are often found on the ground or indoors after accidentally wandering inside.
- Jumping Spiders: Compact spiders with short legs and quick movements. They are easy to recognize by their jumping behavior and are commonly found near windows and doors.
- Cellar Spiders: Also known as daddy longlegs, these spiders have long, thin legs and are frequently found in basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms.
- Orb-Weaver Spiders: Known for their large, circular webs, orb-weavers are commonly found outdoors near gardens, porches, and light fixtures.
- Black Widow Spiders: Shiny black spiders with a red hourglass marking on the abdomen. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as garages, sheds, and woodpiles.
- Brown Recluse Spiders: Light brown spiders with a darker violin-shaped marking on the back. They are reclusive and typically hide in storage areas, attics, and closets.
While most spiders are not dangerous, identifying species like black widows and brown recluses is important, as their bites can cause more serious reactions. If you’re unsure about the type of spider you’re seeing, professional identification can help determine the best next steps.
What are the unique characteristics of spiders?
Spiders share several defining characteristics that distinguish them from insects and other pests:
- Venom: Most spiders produce venom to subdue their prey. For the majority of species, this venom is harmless to humans and is only effective against insects and other small arthropods.
- Body Structure: Spiders have two main body segments, eight legs, and no wings or antennae. Many species also have fangs that inject venom when capturing prey.
- Web Use: Some spiders build webs to trap insects, while others hunt without webs and actively chase or ambush their prey.
- Solitary Behavior: Spiders are generally solitary and spend most of their lives alone. Interaction with other spiders usually occurs only during mating.
- Nocturnal Activity: Many spiders are most active at night, when they hunt for insects and repair or rebuild their webs.
- Diet: Spiders feed primarily on insects and other small arthropods, helping naturally control pest populations around homes and yards.
Where Do Spiders Live?
Spiders are found in a wide range of environments, both indoors and outdoors. Outside, they commonly live in gardens, vegetation, under rocks, and around foundations. Indoors, spiders tend to hide in quiet, undisturbed areas such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, closets, garages, and behind furniture.
Spiders are attracted to areas where insects are present, as well as spaces that provide shelter and low disturbance.
Are Spiders Dangerous?
Most spiders are harmless to humans, and bites are uncommon. When bites do occur, symptoms are usually mild and may include redness, swelling, or irritation. Only a small number of spider species have venom that can cause more serious reactions. If a bite causes severe pain, worsening symptoms, or signs of an allergic reaction, medical attention is recommended.
What are the risks of having a spider infestation?
While most spiders are harmless, a significant infestation can create several risks for your home and family:
- Increased Bite Risk: Even though most spiders are not dangerous, more spiders in and around the home increase the chances of accidental bites, especially from species that can cause stronger reactions, like black widows or brown recluses.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to spider bites or contact with shed exoskeletons, webbing, or droppings. Symptoms can include itching, redness, swelling, or respiratory irritation.
- Attracting Other Pests: Spider infestations often indicate a larger insect problem. Since spiders feed on insects, a high spider population usually means there is plenty of prey, which could include ants, flies, or cockroaches.
- Property and Cleanliness Issues: Large webs in corners, closets, and storage areas can collect dust and debris, making spaces look neglected. In outdoor areas, extensive webs can be unsightly on porches, fences, and shrubs.
- Stress and Anxiety: The presence of many spiders can cause stress, fear, or discomfort for family members, especially children or those with arachnophobia.
- Hidden Infestations: Spiders often hide in quiet, undisturbed areas like attics, basements, or storage rooms. An infestation can go unnoticed for a long time, allowing populations to grow and increasing the risks listed above.
