Spiders
Although some spiders are harmless, most of us don’t want them in our homes. Other spiders are downright terrifying! While it is important to know the difference, most of us don’t want either kind as roommates! Besides their menacing appearance, this is likely due to the fact that almost all of the different species of spiders have some form of venom. The good news is that most of these don’t bite. Even among the biters, most have a lower concentration of venom that will not be life threatening. Common effects of a mild spider bite include a reddish color, possibly including a blister, itching that may include a rash, and pain radiating outward from the location of the bite. Unfortunately, with the bite is from one of the more venomous varieties, the symptoms are much worse. They can include headache, nausea, sweating, heart palpitations, fever and chills, and even difficulty breathing. Seek medical help immediately if you have any of these
Know your Arachnids
Less harmful spiders include jumping spiders. We know them by their sudden moves towards perceived prey. They don’t build webs, but actively hunt for bugs or other spiders, thus earning their name. While they can bite humans, their bites aren’t dangerous. Yellow sac spiders are also fairly common. They build silk web structures in corners and eves both inside and outside the house. Not many bites are reported from this species, however some with compromised immune systems have had serious complications from this type of spider bite. Other mostly harmless spiders include grass spiders, often found around a homes foundation, daddy long legs, and orb weaver spiders which are the architects of the huge webs that we often see covered in dew each morning. All of these are considered pests, but not very hazardous to people or pets.
That isn’t the case for the next group of arachnids. Even their names evoke make a shiver run down your back as they are well known for their venom. Spiders in this category include wolf spiders, brown recluse spiders, and black widows.
Wolf spiders can be very large, and can be various plain colors. They don’t spin webs because they are hunters as their predatory name suggests. Often found in debris, basements, garages, or sheds, these hairy spiders should be avoided.
Brown recluse spiders are somewhat easy to recognize because they have a violin shaped marking covering their heads and backs. They like to hide, and definitely bite. Bites often occur because of reaching into a woodpile, box, corner of the attic or basement, or even a laundry pile or shoes. These spiders are extremely venomous, and bites result in necrotic (rotting) tissue or wounds.
The black widow may be the most famous, or rather infamous poisonous spider. With a red hourglass marking on the abdomen and back, and a shiny black color, they are very distinctive. They are also very dangerous to humans. The effects of a black widow bite will manifest within a few hours and can include severe muscles stiffness, vomiting, and a great deal of pain. A trip to the emergency room is required.
Remember that all of these last spiders are even more dangerous to young children and pets, as they are smaller, and the toxin could have greater effect.
Prevention
Prevention is best when it comes to spiders. They work alone so an infestation won’t happen as quickly as some other pests. However, eliminating single arachnids can prevent them from laying eggs and increasing their numbers. Prevention includes sealing doorways and windows and sweeping down spiders and webs from eves or corners. An essential part of prevention also includes eliminating their food sources. They are coming for the bugs!
So, when you schedule regular pest control visits from your local professional pest control company you are not only protecting entrance points in your home, but even more importantly you are eliminating their food source! For the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a team of experts protecting your home and family, call today!
