What are spiders?
Black widows and wolf spiders are two common species in the Middletown area. Black widows have shiny black bodies, and females have a red hourglass marking. Wolf spiders are grey with darker grey markings and hairy bodies.
Are spiders dangerous?
Of the two species, it is the black widow that is dangerous. This fact might be surprising due to the wolf spider's appearance. But like almost all species, wolf spiders are harmless. Their fangs and venom are dangerous to prey pests, but not to people.
On the other hand, black widows are one of two medically dangerous spider species in North America. At the same time, a bite from one of these spiders is rare because they prefer to stay clear of people and will only bite if threatened. It is even rarer that a bite will result in a fatality, but you should always seek medical attention after a bite from this species.
Why do I have a spider problem?
Spiders are common household pests, but the species you usually see are likely house spiders, which means they do well indoors. However, the species we mentioned above are not house species. Black widows and wolf spiders thrive outside where there are more prey pests. These spiders will likely make their way inside only if prey pests are present.
Prey pests and spiders can squeeze through different weak points in a home's exterior or even by being carried inside on firewood and potted plants.
Where will I find spiders?
Outside, wolf spiders live in burrows that they make or find abandoned by other animals. This species doesn't spin webs but waits for prey to pass by their burrow. Indoors, these active hunters will find similar places to hide. These places include under furniture, closets, and other storage areas.
Black widows create messy-looking webs in lightly trafficked places that are low to the ground. Common areas for these spiders to make their webs are in woodpiles and under rocks. When they make their way inside, you'll find black widows around window frames and other quiet places.
How do I get rid of spiders?
The best way to keep spiders out of your home is with professional home pest control in Middletown. At Armed Force Pest Control, we provide bimonthly services to make sure your home is clear of pests like spiders and the insects they eat.
With a free inspection, you can get started with the right spider control treatments for your home! Contact us at Armed Force Pest Control to learn more about our recurring services.
How can I prevent spiders in the future?
If you are like most people, you probably want to do everything you can to keep spiders out of your home. To do this, you should use the following tips to reduce the prey pests that attract spiders:
- Repair places where pests can get in, such as cracks in the foundation and damaged screens.
- Reduce moisture by eliminating organic debris from your yard, repair leaks, and use dehumidifiers where necessary.
- Remove food sources such as crumbs, garbage, and pet food that attract the insects that spiders hunt.
For a spider-free home, call us at Armed Force Pest Control!
