Some creatures are named after the prey they hunt, such as cicada killers or bat falcons. Thankfully, this is not the case for wolf spiders. Instead, wolf spiders got their name because of the way they hunt. Unlike other spiders that hunt using webs, wolf spiders hunt low to the ground, sneaking up on other insects as wolves do with their prey. This act can be jarring when witnessed in real life. The question is, do wolf spiders pose any threat to you or your family, and is there any way you can keep pests out of your Elk Grove home? Let’s find out.
How To Identify Wolf Spiders
Wolf spiders are one of the most common home-invading spiders here in Elk Grove. These 8 legged 1/2 to 2 inch long brown pests can be identified by their hairy bodies and distinct markings. When inside homes, wolf spiders will do their best to stay out of view, often seeking shelter near the ground inside closets, and around basements, cellars, and garages. It is only late at night that they will emerge to hunt for their prey.
Are Wolf Spiders Dangerous?
Although wolf spiders look fairly frightening, the worst they can do is bite. Fortunately, the venom from their bite hurts no more than that of a bee sting. When it comes to avoiding being bitten by a wolf spider, all you really have to do is avoid coming in contact with one. As long as you don’t try to handle one, or accidentally come in contact with one while searching through storage, you should have no issues. Besides their bite, wolf spiders cannot spread dangerous diseases, they aren’t known to destroy property, and you are unlikely to find them stealing any food or drinks from your pantry. (That is as long as you’re not storing crickets or any other insects to feed a pet lizard or frog.)
How You Can Keep Wolf Spiders Out Of Your Home
Wolf spiders will invade homes for one of a few reasons. Most commonly they will come inside to hunt for other insects such as crickets, cockroaches, ants, and even other spiders. The other reason wolf spiders invade homes is to avoid inclement or cold weather outdoors. The trick to preventing spiders, in general, is to make sure your home is properly sealed, and that other insects stay away. To do this, here are some practical prevention tips our experts recommend.
- Use a caulking gun or liquid cement to seal up gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior.
- Make sure all of your exterior doors are equipped with door sweeps.
- Check weather stripping around your home and make sure it is in good working order.
- Repair or replace torn window/door screens.
- Keep exterior lights off at night or invest in insect repellent bulbs.
- Clean your home regularly and reduce clutter spiders and other pests can hide within.
- Fix leaky pipes and fixtures throughout your home.
- Check your gutters and make sure they are in good working order.
- Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity down throughout your home.
A Better Way To Prevent Wolf Spiders
At the end of the day, you are going to want the best protection possible to keep wolf spiders and the pests they invade to hunt out of your home. Luckily, we have just that for you here at Neighborly Pest Management. With over 42 years in the pest control industry, you can be certain we are your best choice for a pest-free home.
Give us a call today to find out more about our spider control services, or to schedule a visit for your Elk Grove property.