The Common House spider, scientifically known as Parasteatoda tepidariorum, is a widely distributed arachnid species that is commonly found in households around the world. These spiders have adapted to human-made environments and are often encountered in residential settings, including homes, apartments, and other buildings. It’s important to note that while Common House spiders are beneficial in controlling pests, their presence can sometimes be undesirable due to aesthetic reasons or personal preferences. Understanding their behavior and natural habitat preferences can aid in managing their populations effectively and maintaining a comfortable living environment.
Identification
Common House spiders share several identifying features:
Size: Adult Common House spiders typically range from 4 to 9 mm in body length, with leg spans up to several inches.
Coloration: They have a range of colors, including variations of brown, gray, or tan.
Web Structure: Common House spiders are known for their intricate, tangled webs typically found in corners, ceiling junctions, and other secluded areas of homes.
Behavior
These spiders rely on their skillful web-building abilities to trap and capture various insects that enter indoor spaces. By feeding on pests like flies, mosquitoes, and small crawling insects, Common House spiders assist in keeping unwanted populations under control.
These spiders exhibit a preference for quiet and undisturbed areas within households. Basements, attics, crawl spaces, and unused rooms are common locations where they establish their webs. These sheltered areas provide a stable environment with reduced human activity, allowing the spiders to focus on capturing prey without frequent disturbances.
Their web-building behavior is intricate and impressive. Common House spiders construct tangled, irregular webs known as cobwebs. These webs may be built in corners, along walls, or between objects where insects are likely to pass by. The spiders use silk threads to create a sticky surface that ensnares unsuspecting prey, enabling them to capture and consume insects within their web.
Extermination Techniques
If Common House spider infestations become a concern, the following extermination techniques can be employed:
Non-Chemical Methods:
Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum and clean areas where Common House spiders and their webs are present to reduce their population and remove hiding places.
Eliminate Clutter: Declutter storage areas and remove unnecessary items that can provide hiding spots for spiders.
Chemical Control:
Insecticides: Apply residual insecticides to targeted areas with professional guidance to effectively control Common House spiders. Consult a pest control expert for appropriate product selection and application methods.
While Common House spiders are generally harmless to humans, their presence can be undesirable for aesthetic or cleanliness reasons. Additionally, some individuals may have a fear or discomfort around spiders, which can lead to a desire to manage their populations. While they are generally harmless, controlling their populations is important for maintaining a spider-free environment. Employ non-chemical methods and seek professional advice when necessary
FAQs
Seal cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and foundation walls to prevent spider entry. Regularly clean and remove debris from outdoor areas adjacent to your home to discourage spider populations.
Common House spiders are generally considered harmless to humans, and their bites are rare. If bitten, the symptoms are typically mild and similar to a bee or wasp sting.
Common House spiders are beneficial as they help control insect populations by catching and consuming pests in their webs. They play a role in natural pest management.
If you require expert assistance in dealing with Common House spider infestations, contact our professional pest control services.