Spiders are a unique pest in that, while outside in the world, they are considered to be very beneficial for the ecosystem and environment around them. That is because spiders help keep the populations of bothersome insects in control. However, when spiders venture into our homes, they become pests that we have to deal with. Even if they’re beneficial outside, they’re unwelcome inside. That is why you should know what your options are when it comes to preventing spiders from entering your Elk Grove property.
All spiders have eight legs, bodies are comprised of two segments, and have fangs that can transmit venom. However, most spiders do not possess sufficient venom to be potent enough to harm humans. Here in Elk Grove and the surrounding area the species of spiders that you are most likely to encounter include wolf spiders, yellow sac spiders, orb weaver spiders, cellar spiders, and black widows.
Wolf Spiders are large spiders that grow to be ¼ to 1 3/8th inch long. They are dark brown and often feature lighter markings on their bodies. Wolf spiders hunt at night and are prone to biting if they feel threatened. However, their bites are not venomous enough to harm people beyond being painful.
Yellow Sac Spiders are smaller spiders that grow to be about ¼ of an inch long. They are usually yellow or a pale beige in color. They do not make webs and, instead, prefer to hunt. Yellow sac spiders will bite if they feel threatened, though the bites are only painful, not dangerous.
Orb Weaver Spiders vary greatly in size and color. Instead, you can identify orb weavers by the large circular webs that they create.
Cellar Spiders can grow to be 3/8th of an inch long with long slender legs and smaller bodies. They are usually a pale yellow or light brown color. Cellar spiders prefer cool, moist areas such as cellars or basements.
Black Widow Spiders are jet black, and the females feature a red hourglass figure on their abdomens. They can grow to be 1 3/8th inch long. Black Widows are the most venomous spider in the United States, and bites from them should be treated as urgent.
Threats Posed By Spiders
Bites from a black widow should be considered very serious as these bites can be fatal in some instances. If you are bitten by a black widow, seek medical assistance immediately. Most spiders you encounter in your home, while capable of biting, will not inflict much damage beyond the initial pain. However, that doesn’t mean you will want to welcome these creepy-crawly arachnids in your home.
Spider Prevention Tips
More often than not, spiders will enter a home or property because there is an abundance of other pests upon which the spider can feed. Basic pest prevention means spider prevention, as well. Additionally, sealing off possible entry points helps to limit the number of spiders in your home. Some other tips include:
- Wipe up any spills from countertops or floors immediately
- Store all food in tightly-sealed containers
- Take out the trash regularly
- Store trash in bins with tight-sealing lids
- Fix any leaky pipes or fixtures
- Keep areas of your home free of clutter and debris
- Use dehumidifiers to keep moisture levels low around your home
- Wipe away any webs that you see
- Install screens in windows and doors
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
- Seal any cracks in the foundation of your home
- Seal holes around window and door frames
- Spider Control Solutions
If you have any further questions about spider prevention, or if you require assistance in dealing with a spider infestation, call the professionals here at Neighborly Pest Control.
With over 40 years of experience in the pest control industry, we know how to effectively eliminate any spider infestation in your home. Additionally, we can work with you to take to proper steps to prevent future infestations. It’s your home, not the spiders. Give us a call today.