Spiders
Spider Facts & Control in Your Home or Business
General Information
Spiders are found on every continent except Antarctica.
Of the 40,000 species, most produce silk to construct their webs. These pests use webs as shelter and to catch prey.
For the most part, spiders pose no physical threat to people, though some species are venomous.
Appearance
What Do Spiders Look Like?All spiders have eight legs, two body regions, and either three or four sets of eyes.
Generally, the pests are covered in hair and have large abdomens. Their size varies and coloration depends on their preferred environments, since most spiders use their colors to blend with their surroundings.
Habits & Habitat
Spiders are usually a solitary species that can be found most anywhere. The only conditions not suitable to the pests are cold temperatures.
When cold weather strikes, they are driven indoors. Some of their preferred habitats include:
- Basements
- Plants
- Trees
- Barns
- Attics
- Grasslands
- Woodpiles
Diet
What Do Spiders Eat?Spiders primarily feed on insects and other spiders. They capture prey in their webs and use their venom to liquefy food.
Since the venom is designed to impact small insects, humans are not adversely affected by the bites of most species.
Reproduction
Females initiate the mating process and, in some species, consume the male after it's finished.
Spiders can produce up to 1000 eggs depending on the species. Females stay with their eggs until they hatch.
Young spiders undergo several molts before they reach adulthood. Spiders live an average of one to three years.
Problems Caused by Spiders
Spiders leave unsightly cobwebs throughout yards, gardens, and homes. They also scare many homeowners with their presence. Spiders bite people and pets when they feel trapper or cornered, which can cause swelling and itchiness.
Black widow and brown recluse spiders are venomous and, therefore, much more dangerous. Being bitten by one of these spiders requires medical attention. Individuals with weak immune systems are at higher risk of having serious reactions to the pests' venom.
Signs of Infestation
The appearance of cobwebs alert homeowners to the existence of spider infestations.
Additionally, residents may find adults in and around homes, particularly in basements and dark corners. Finally, finding a spider bite is a good indication of the pest's presence.
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Prevention
Prevent spiders from invading homes by sealing cracks in building foundations that allow them access.
Regularly cleaning of basements and storage areas will eliminate spiders' preferred hiding places.
When faced with an infestation, contact pest control experts to take care of the problem. The trained staff at Waltham Pest Services will help individuals eliminate spider activity in their home.
More Information
Spiders by LocationTypes of Spiders
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