Spider Identification & Prevention Guide

What are spiders?

Spiders are not insects; they are arachnids and belong to the same group as ticks, mites, and scorpions. Spiders have two body segments; cephalothorax (head) and abdomen (body). All spiders lack antennae and are wingless. These predators are beneficial pests that hunt and feed on a variety of nuisance and garden pests on your property.

Listed below are two of the most common species of dangerous spiders living throughout the Greater Austin area:

Black widow spiders
These spiders have a unique red, hourglass-shaped mark on the underside of their abdomens; this red marking signals danger to predators. Their round bodies are shiny and black, and their eight legs are long and thin. The black widow's venom attacks the nervous system of its victims.

Brown recluse spiders
These spiders have bodies that are yellowish-gray to dark black. Their abdomens have a coat of gray hair and their legs are darker in color than their bodies. They also have a distinctive violin-shaped patterns on the top. Brown recluse spiders have three pairs of eyes arranged in a semicircle.

Are spiders dangerous?

Most spiders in our area are nuisance spiders and pose no threat to people. However, there are some species of dangerous spiders living in our area such as the black widow and brown recluse. Both spiders possess venom strong enough to trigger serious health problems in people. Symptoms from a black widow bite include muscle aches, nausea, stomach cramps, and breathing difficulty. A brown recluse bite may cause a fever and trouble sleeping. The tissue around the bite dies over a few days or weeks, causing an open ulcer that is slow to heal and prone to infection. You should always take caution to keep your distance from black widows and brown recluse spiders.

Why do I have a spider problem?

Provided there are ample sources of food (insects) and shelter, spiders can pose a problem in any property. Once living comfortably on your property, there is a good possibility they will find their way inside. Spiders usually prefer to live outdoors but will often move inside when following their food and during periods of unpleasant weather.

Where will I find spiders?

Spiders live in a wide variety of locations, and you will most likely walk by hundreds of them each day without even noticing. Spiders hide outside, building their webs out of sight in bushes, garages, gardens, tall grass, trees, behind shingles and shutters, under decks, and in other dark, secluded locations. When these eight-legged creatures do get inside, they nest in dark, quiet spots like attics, basements, closets, under furniture, and on the ceiling. Spiders will also hide out in bedding, boxes, clothing, and shoes.

How do I get rid of spiders?

At Roberts Termite & Pest Control, we have been providing high-quality pest control here in Austin, TX for over 60 years. Our technicians use environmentally friendly products and advanced techniques to get rid of spiders and other common pests. Through quality customer service and flexible scheduling, we work with you to meet your unique pest control needs. Learn more about our spider control services or schedule a free consultation by reaching out to Roberts Pest Control today!

How can I prevent spiders in the future?

In addition to our professional services, the following prevention tips will help you to prevent problems with spiders in your home or business:

• Limit access to the inside of your home or business by repairing cracks in the foundation and exterior walls.

• Reduce hiding spots by keeping storage areas organized and free of clutter.

• Place caps on chimneys and put mesh covers over vents.

• Cut back tree branches from the exterior.

• Install door sweeps on exterior doors, especially basement doors.

• Regularly dust and vacuum your home or business, and remove any spider webs you find.

• Get rid of sources of water by keeping gutters and downspouts clear of debris and fixing leaky outdoor faucets and hoses.