There are thousands of spider species in North America. These arthropods have eight legs and a round abdomen, with fangs that can inject venom into their prey. Many species of spiders weave strong, sticky webs to capture prey. Some other species lasso their prey with sticky bolas, mimic their prey to avoid detection, or simply chase it down. Most spiders eat other insects, but some eat actual animals and other spiders. Females weave silk egg cases that can contain hundreds of eggs. Many spider species care for their young by sharing food or carrying them around. Males have short lifespans – they are often eaten by females, who are usually much larger. To avoid this, they perform complex courtship mating rituals and then die after a few matings. Most spiders can live up to 2 years. However, some species (such as tarantulas) can live 25 years in captivity.

A spider infestation can be caused by a few different factors. Since spiders feed primarily on other insects, one of the most common reasons is other insect problems. They feed on pests like ants, roaches, moths, earwigs, mosquitos, flies, beetles, crickets, and others. Without a food source, it would be hard for them to survive inside your home. This is why spider control professionals always search for other insect infestations. On the bright side, the presence of spiders in your home often means they are helping get rid of these other insects. However, spiders can’t do all the work – professional spider control will help eliminate the spider problem as well as other insect problems that are attracting spiders.

Aside from other insects, an unclean home can provide the perfect shelter for spiders. Make sure to vacuum, sweep, and dust on a regular basis to prevent webs and eggs from gathering. They prefer dark and secluded areas for shelter. Some species are attracted to moist environments like basements. Spiders can also be brought inside accidentally via infested items from outside, or items from storage areas like the garage.

While many spiders you find indoors are harmless, many species can deliver irritating and painful bites. Some species are able to inject venom that’s poisonous to humans. A few of these include black widows, brown recluses, and hobo spiders. Thanks to medical care advances, deaths from spider bites have greatly decreased, but it’s important to seek medical attention if bitten by a dangerous spider. Without proper attention, you can experience an array of negative side effects (or even death). There are additional poisonous spiders that give a painful bite, but typically won’t cause death or drastic symptoms unless you’re allergic. A few of these include mouse spiders, black house spiders, and wolf spiders. Daddy long legs are actually the most poisonous spiders, but thankfully their fangs can’t puncture human skin. As of recently, scientists have been researching spider venom in medicine and even pesticides. Spider control in the future might utilize spider venom!

There are a few signs that could raise the red flag of an infestation. Noticing multiple spiders in your home is one obvious sign. However, seeing just one spider doesn’t always mean you have an infestation – they often crawl indoors or be brought inside by accident. Before seeking out spider control after seeing one crawler, try doing a bit of additional investigation for further signs of spider problems. Spider webs are another sign that’s easy to spot. You might also spot egg sacs in webs or around the home as some species attach them to fixed surfaces. Spider skins that have been shed around the home could be another indicator that it’s time for spider control.