The Common House Spider

The term ‘common house spider’ is a bit of an umbrella term, covering a whole gang of small, usually brown or gray spiders that love to make themselves at home in our houses. 

These eight-legged roommates are generally harmless, but let’s be honest, not many of us get excited about finding a spider lurking in our living room!

Let’s take a look at common house spiders in the United States. 

What Does a House Spider Look Like?

  • Size: Most house spiders are relatively small, with body lengths ranging from a few millimeters to about 1 centimeter.
  • Color: They typically exhibit shades of brown, gray, or tan, often with darker markings on their abdomens.
  • Body Shape: They have the classic spider body plan: a two-part body (cephalothorax and abdomen) and eight legs.
  • Webs: Many house spiders spin irregular webs in corners, under furniture, and in other secluded areas.

Common House Spider Habitat

Indoors:

  • Think of them as the “night owls” of your home. They love to hang out in quiet, dark places like dusty corners, under furniture, and deep within closets. Basements and attics are their favorite hideaways.

Outdoors:

  • While they’re happy indoors, they also enjoy the great outdoors! You’ll often find them lurking in gardens, taking shelter in sheds, and exploring other outdoor structures.

Common House Spider Diet

  • Dinner is Served! House spiders are like to eat a variety of things you might find in a home. They love to dine on a menu of delicious insects, including flies, mosquitoes, moths, and ants. 

Common House Spider Egg Sac

  • Appearance: House spider egg sacs can vary in appearance depending on the species. They are often small, round, and may be covered in silk.
  • Location: Egg sacs are typically found in secluded areas within the spider’s web or in other sheltered spots.

Common House Spider Bite

Spider Bites usually occur when a spider feels threatened, such as when it gets accidentally trapped against your skin.

To avoid spider bites you can do things like avoid sudden movements, wear gloves when handling items that are in areas where spiders might be present, or call a spider control expert.

If you do happen to get bitten, you might notice a small red mark and feel a mild stinging sensation. Some people experience slight swelling around the bite area. 

Learn more about spider bite symptoms

Is the Common House Spider Poisonous?

Yes, common house spiders are poisonous, but not to humans: While all spiders have venom, the venom of most common house spiders is not potent enough to cause significant harm to humans. Their bites are usually no more serious than a bee sting.

What is the Most Common House Spider?

Identifying specific species can be challenging. However, some of the most common house spiders include:

American House Spider: These are very common, small to medium-sized spiders with tan or gray bodies. They build messy webs in corners and undisturbed areas.

Cellar Spiders: Often called “daddy longlegs,” these spiders have extremely long, thin legs and small bodies. They are commonly found in basements, cellars, and other dark, damp areas.

Wolf Spiders: These are larger, hairy spiders that are active hunters. They don’t typically build webs but instead roam around looking for prey.

Jumping Spiders: Small, colorful spiders with excellent eyesight. They are known for their ability to jump and are often found on windows and walls.

Sac Spiders: These small spiders build silken “sacs” for shelter and egg-laying.

Controlling House Spiders

Common ways of controlling spiders include reducing clutter, cleaning regularly, sealing entry points, proper landscaping, pest control services. (link all of these to the below spots on the page)

Reduce Clutter:

Creating a clutter-free environment is one of the most effective ways to discourage spiders from making your home their own

  • Declutter regularly: Spiders love to hide in cluttered areas. Regularly decluttering your home can significantly reduce their hiding spots.
  • Store items properly: Keep items off the floor and neatly organized in boxes or containers.
  • Pay attention to corners and crevices: These are prime spots for spiders to build webs.

Clean Regularly:

Regular cleaning isn’t just about keeping your home tidy, it’s also a crucial step in spider prevention

  • Vacuum frequently: Vacuuming not only removes dust and debris but also disrupts spider webs and removes any eggs that may be present.
  • Dust regularly: Dusting surfaces removes food sources for spiders and makes their presence less likely.
  • Clean up food spills immediately: Food crumbs and spills attract insects, which in turn attract spiders.

Seal Entry Points:

Spiders are expert infiltrators, so it’s crucial to seal up any potential entry points around your home to keep them out.

  • Inspect your home’s exterior: Look for cracks and crevices around windows, doors, foundations, and pipes.
  • Use caulk or sealant: Seal any gaps you find to prevent spiders from entering your home.
  • Repair damaged screens: Make sure your window and door screens are in good condition and free of holes.

Proper Landscaping:

Your landscaping choices can significantly impact your home’s attractiveness to spiders. By creating a less spider-friendly environment around your home, you can deter these eight-legged visitors.

  • Trim back tree branches and shrubs: Overhanging vegetation provides easy access for spiders to enter your home.
  • Keep vegetation away from the foundation: Maintain a clear space around the perimeter of your home to deter spiders.
  • Remove piles of leaves and debris: These can harbor spiders and provide them with ideal nesting sites.

Consider a Professional Pest Control Service:

For persistent spider problems or when DIY methods aren’t enough, a professional pest control service can provide effective and long-lasting solutions.

  • For severe infestations: If you’re dealing with a large number of spiders or if DIY methods aren’t effective, consider contacting a professional pest control service.
  • For expert advice: A pest control professional can assess your situation and recommend the most effective treatment options.
  • For peace of mind: Professional pest control services can provide ongoing monitoring and treatment to keep your home spider-free.

FAQ: The World’s Biggest Spider

Common house spiders are a group of spider species frequently found in residential and indoor environments. They are non-aggressive and primarily feed on insects.

No, most common house spiders are harmless to humans. While they may bite if threatened, their venom is typically not potent enough to cause serious harm.

House spiders often seek shelter indoors for warmth, food, and protection from predators. They are drawn to areas with abundant insects or dark, undisturbed spaces.

Common house spiders are usually small, with brown or gray bodies. They often have patterned abdomens and long, thin legs. Their appearance may vary by species.

House spiders feed on small insects, such as flies, mosquitoes, and moths. They catch their prey using silk webs.

Yes, most house spiders construct webs to trap prey. Web designs vary by species, ranging from irregular shapes to neatly organized patterns.

The lifespan of a house spider depends on the species, but many live for about one year. Some species can live longer under favorable conditions.

To reduce the presence of house spiders:

  • Seal cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows.
  • Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
  • Remove webs regularly.
  • Reduce outdoor lighting that attracts insects.

Yes, house spiders can reproduce indoors. Female spiders lay eggs in silk sacs, which may hatch into dozens of spiderlings.

If you have a large number of spiders, consider:

  • Identifying the source of the infestation.
  • Eliminating food sources (insects).

Contacting a pest control professional for assistance.

Most house spiders can survive outside but may prefer indoor environments for consistent food and temperature.

Slide

"My family has been an H2 customer for about 6 months. We built a home in Saratoga Springs, in an area that has a lot of insects and spiders. After seeing a few spiders in the house, we decided to use their services. They were prompt to respond, and very professional. I have not seen any spiders in our house since that time. We have called them for a few other issues (mice and may flies) and they always come right out and help. The staff are very friendly, very helpful and very professional. They never seem bothered by us calling and always ask us to call if something else is needed. They seem to value their customers very much, and they strive to provide a great product. I would highly recommend them based on my experiences."

-Brett H.

Slide

“These guys are seriously the best! We’ve worked with them since 2017 in our townhome in Eagle Mountain to now when we moved to Sandy! They just came to treat our new home and I feel so much better knowing we’re covered again!

We never saw any bugs at the last place, and two days after we told them we were worried about mice at the townhome, they were there taking care of it.

Amazing customer service and always very thorough!”

-Sierra M.

Redback Spider

The Redback Spider (Latrodectus hasseltii) is a notorious arachnid native to Australia. 

This small but potent spider has earned its reputation for its venomous bite, though the good news is that serious bites are rare.

The Redback Spider is a member of the widow spider genus (Latrodectus), which also includes the infamous Black Widow.

It’s easily recognizable by the striking red stripe that runs down the back of the female’s abdomen, resembling an hourglass.

Let’s take a deeper look at the redback spider. 

How Big is a Redback Spider?

Female Redback Spiders are significantly larger than males. 

Females typically measure about 1 centimeter in body length, while males are much smaller, only about 3-4 millimeters long.

Redback Spider Webs

Redback Spiders are skilled web-builders, though their webs aren’t exactly known for their neatness. 

These messy, tangled creations often resemble a spider’s attempt at abstract art! 

You’ll find these haphazard webs tucked away in cozy hideaways like under rocks, logs, and piles of firewood. 

And don’t be surprised if you discover a Redback Spider web lurking in a quiet corner of your garage, shed, or even inside your home (depending on where you live). 

They’re masters at finding secluded spots to spin their webs.

Redback Spider Predators

Even the mighty Redback Spider has its own set of enemies!

  • Wasp Warfare: Certain crafty wasps have developed a taste for these arachnids, making a meal out of the Redback Spider.
  • Feathered Foes: Birds, such as the clever magpie and the mischievous kookaburra, are known to enjoy a Redback Spider snack.
  • Spider vs. Spider: The world of spiders can be a competitive one, and sometimes, larger spiders will make a meal out of their smaller Redback cousins.

Redback Spider Bite

A Redback Spider bite can be a concerning experience. In this section, we’ll delve into the possible symptoms you might encounter and what to do if you suspect you’ve been bitten.

Can a Redback Spider Kill You?

While the Redback Spider’s bite packs a punch, it’s not usually a death sentence.

Think of it like this: it’s more like a superhero movie villain – dangerous, but not invincible. 

Yes, their venom is potent, and a bite can definitely make you feel miserable, but with prompt medical attention, serious complications are rare.

What Happens If You Get Bitten?

Brace yourself for a wild ride! A Redback Spider bite can feel like a rollercoaster of unpleasant symptoms. You might experience:

  • Intense Pain: Imagine a muscle cramp that just won’t quit! That’s what the pain from a Redback bite can feel like.
  • Muscle Cramps: Get ready for some serious muscle spasms, especially in your abdomen.
  • The “Sweats”: You might find yourself drenched in sweat, even if you’re not doing anything strenuous.
  • Other Unpleasantries: Nausea, vomiting, and even difficulty breathing can occur in some cases.

Is a Redback Spider Poisonous?

Absolutely! These spiders are equipped with a potent venom that contains a neurotoxin. Think of it as their secret weapon for subduing their prey.

Living with Redback Spiders

  • Prevention is Key:
    • Clean up debris: Remove any piles of wood, rocks, or other clutter that can provide hiding places for spiders.
    • Wear gloves when gardening: This can help protect your hands from accidental bites.
    • Be cautious when handling outdoor items: Shake out shoes and clothing before putting them on.
Redback vs. Black Widow: Two Venomous Cousins

The Redback Spider and the Black Widow Spider are often compared due to their close evolutionary relationship. 

Both belong to the genus Latrodectus, a group of spiders notorious for their potent venom. While they share some similarities, there are key differences:

Appearance:

Redback: Easily recognized by the striking red stripe running down the back of the female’s abdomen.

Black Widow: Typically shiny black with a characteristic red hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen.

Location:

Redback Spiders: These arachnids are true Aussies at heart, primarily found in Australia and parts of Asia.

Black Widows: These global travelers can be found across the globe, from the bustling cities of North and South America to the ancient lands of Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Venom:

Both species possess potent neurotoxins.

The severity of bites can vary depending on factors such as the age and health of the victim.

Health Concerns:

Both can cause significant pain, muscle cramps, and other symptoms.

Medical attention is crucial for both types of bites.

Key Takeaway:

While both Redback and Black Widow spiders are venomous and can cause serious health issues, they are distinct species with unique characteristics and distributions.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns.

Outsmarting the Eight-Legged Invaders: Controlling Redback and Black Widow Spiders

Want to keep these venomous arachnids at bay? No problem! Here’s how to outsmart these eight-legged invaders

  • Declutter and Conquer: These spiders love to hide in clutter. Declutter your garage, shed, and any other outdoor storage areas to reduce their hiding spots.
  • Seal the Deal: Think of your home as a fortress! Seal up any cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations to prevent these sneaky spiders from entering.
  • Landscaping for Victory: Keep vegetation trimmed back from your home’s exterior. Overgrown plants and shrubs provide a welcome mat for these arachnids.
  • Clean Up the Mess: Remove piles of wood, rocks, and other debris that can become spider havens.
  • Garden Gloves are Your Friends: Always wear gloves when gardening to protect your hands from accidental encounters.
  • When in Doubt, Call in the Experts: For severe infestations or if you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals

Redback Spider FAQs

Redback spiders (Latrodectus hasselti) are venomous arachnids native to Australia. They are closely related to black widow spiders and are recognizable by the distinctive red or orange stripe on their black body.

Yes, redback spiders are venomous and can be dangerous. Their bites may cause severe pain and symptoms such as sweating, nausea, and muscle weakness. However, deaths are extremely rare due to the availability of antivenom.

Redback spiders are found throughout Australia in both urban and rural areas. They prefer sheltered locations such as under rocks, logs, garden furniture, and in sheds or garages.

Redback spiders feed on insects, small reptiles, and even other spiders. They catch their prey using sticky, irregular webs.

Female redback spiders are black with a prominent red or orange stripe on their upper abdomen. They are about 1 cm long. Males are smaller, lighter in color, and less noticeable.

Yes, redback spiders can bite humans if they feel threatened. Most bites occur when people accidentally come into contact with the spider or disturb its web.

If bitten:

  1. Wash the bite site with soap and water.
  2. Apply an ice pack to reduce pain.
  3. Seek medical attention immediately. Antivenom is available and highly effective.

While redback spider bites are painful, fatalities are extremely rare thanks to the widespread availability of antivenom.

  • Keep outdoor areas clean and free of debris.
  • Remove webs regularly.
  • Seal cracks and gaps around your home to prevent entry.
  • Wear gloves when working in areas where spiders may be hiding.

Female redback spiders can live for up to three years, while males typically live for only a few months.

Yes, redback spiders build irregular, sticky webs close to the ground in sheltered areas. Their webs often have vertical threads to trap prey.

Male redback spiders are much smaller and less venomous than females. They rarely bite humans and are not considered dangerous.

Yes, redback spiders can survive indoors, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas such as basements, attics, and storage spaces.

No, redback spiders are not aggressive. They usually remain in their webs and only bite if directly threatened or disturbed.

Both spiders belong to the Latrodectus genus and are closely related. Redback spiders have a red stripe on their back, while black widow spiders have a red hourglass shape on the underside of their abdomen.

Slide

"My family has been an H2 customer for about 6 months. We built a home in Saratoga Springs, in an area that has a lot of insects and spiders. After seeing a few spiders in the house, we decided to use their services. They were prompt to respond, and very professional. I have not seen any spiders in our house since that time. We have called them for a few other issues (mice and may flies) and they always come right out and help. The staff are very friendly, very helpful and very professional. They never seem bothered by us calling and always ask us to call if something else is needed. They seem to value their customers very much, and they strive to provide a great product. I would highly recommend them based on my experiences."

-Brett H.

Slide

“These guys are seriously the best! We’ve worked with them since 2017 in our townhome in Eagle Mountain to now when we moved to Sandy! They just came to treat our new home and I feel so much better knowing we’re covered again!

We never saw any bugs at the last place, and two days after we told them we were worried about mice at the townhome, they were there taking care of it.

Amazing customer service and always very thorough!”

-Sierra M.

How Many Legs Does a Spider Have?

Spiders are known for their intricate webs and unsettling appearance. 

One of the most distinctive features of these arachnids is the number of legs they possess. 

So, how many legs does a spider have? A spider has eight legs.

Spiders have two main body parts:

  • The head and chest are joined together, called the cephalothorax. This is where their brain, eyes, and legs are located.
  • The abdomen is the rear part of their body. It holds important organs and the special parts that make silk.

Spiders have eight legs, which makes them different from insects that only have six. These legs help them do lots of things:

  • Move around: They use their legs to walk and run very quickly.
  • Catch food: Many spiders use their legs to grab and hold onto their prey, like bugs.
  • Build webs: Spiders that make webs use their legs to carefully weave the sticky threads.

Why Eight Legs?

Having eight legs is really helpful for spiders:

  • They stay steady: Eight legs help them balance and walk on all sorts of tricky places.
  • They can move fast: Extra legs make them quick and able to turn and chase their food easily.
  • They feel their way: Their legs have tiny hairs that help them sense what’s around them.

Spider Legs: A Closer Look

Spider legs come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the species. Some spiders have long, slender legs adapted for running, while others have shorter, sturdier legs for digging or climbing.

  • Regeneration: Remarkably, some spiders can regenerate lost legs, although the regenerated leg may be smaller than the original.

Spider Legs in Action

Beyond walking and running, spider legs play a vital role in a variety of activities:

  • Jumping: Some spiders, like jumping spiders, have powerful legs that enable them to leap impressive distances.
  • Mating: Male spiders often use their front legs to perform elaborate courtship displays to attract females.

Spider Leg FAQs

A: Spiders have eight legs.
A: Insects have six legs.
A: Eight legs provide spiders with better balance, help them move faster, and give them a better sense of their surroundings.
A: Yes, some spiders can regrow lost legs, although the new leg may be smaller.
A: Yes, all spiders have eight legs.
A: Spider legs are used for walking, running, jumping, capturing prey, building webs, and sensing their environment.
Slide

"My family has been an H2 customer for about 6 months. We built a home in Saratoga Springs, in an area that has a lot of insects and spiders. After seeing a few spiders in the house, we decided to use their services. They were prompt to respond, and very professional. I have not seen any spiders in our house since that time. We have called them for a few other issues (mice and may flies) and they always come right out and help. The staff are very friendly, very helpful and very professional. They never seem bothered by us calling and always ask us to call if something else is needed. They seem to value their customers very much, and they strive to provide a great product. I would highly recommend them based on my experiences."

-Brett H.

Slide

“These guys are seriously the best! We’ve worked with them since 2017 in our townhome in Eagle Mountain to now when we moved to Sandy! They just came to treat our new home and I feel so much better knowing we’re covered again!

We never saw any bugs at the last place, and two days after we told them we were worried about mice at the townhome, they were there taking care of it.

Amazing customer service and always very thorough!”

-Sierra M.

Spider Bite Symptoms

Spider Bite Symptoms – Did a Spider Bite You?

So, you woke up with a mysterious bite and now you’re wondering, “Did a spider do this?!” Fear not, curious web surfer! 

We’re here to help you decode those pesky spider bite symptoms.

Before we dive in, it’s important to note, this information is meant to provide you with general information for entertainment purposes only. This does not substitute for medical advice and we always recommend consulting with a healthcare professional for any health concerns. 

First Things First: Most Spider Bites Are Harmless

Let’s get one thing straight: most spider bites are no big deal. 

They might itch, sting, and look a bit red, but that’s usually the extent of it. Think of them like a pesky mosquito bite, but maybe a little more dramatic.

But Wait, What If It’s NOT Harmless?

Now, there are a few sneaky spiders out there whose bites can cause more trouble. Let’s dive into some common culprits and their telltale signs. 

Important Note: It’s extremely difficult to definitively identify a spider bite without seeing the spider itself. Many skin conditions can mimic spider bites.

Brown Recluse Spider Bite Symptoms:

The Look:

  • You might not even notice it at first! Often, the bite feels like a small prick.
  • Later, the bite area may get red and swollen.
  • A bullseye pattern can sometimes appear: a small blister in the center, surrounded by a red ring, then a lighter area, and finally another red ring.

The Feel: 

You might experience pain, itching, and a fever. In severe cases, the bite can cause an open sore (ulcer) that takes a long time to heal.

Black Widow Spider Bite Symptoms:

The Look:

You might see two small puncture marks from the spider’s fangs. The bite area may become red and slightly swollen.

The Feel:

  • Intense pain: This is a hallmark of a black widow bite. The pain can spread from the bite site to your chest, back, and abdomen.
  • Muscle cramps: Severe muscle cramps are common, especially in the abdomen.
  • Other symptoms: You might also experience nausea, vomiting, sweating, fever, headache, and difficulty breathing.

Wolf Spider Bite Symptoms:

The Look:

  • You’ll likely see two small puncture marks from the spider’s fangs.
  • The bite area will become red, swollen, and often quite painful.
  • There might be some local redness and swelling around the bite.

The Feel:

  • Painful: Similar to a bee sting, the bite site will be quite painful.
  • Itchy: Intense itching is common around the bite area.
  • Mild discomfort: You might experience mild fever, chills, or muscle aches in some cases.

Hobo Spider Bite:

The Look:

  • The initial appearance of a hobo spider bite can be quite variable.
  • Some people may experience only mild redness and swelling.
  • In other cases, the bite wound may develop into an open sore (ulcer) that can take weeks or even months to heal.
  • The appearance of the bite can sometimes resemble a brown recluse spider bite.

The Feel:

  • Pain: You’ll likely experience pain and itching at the bite site.
  • Redness and swelling: These are common symptoms.
  • Systemic symptoms: In some cases, you might experience headache, nausea, and fatigue.

Yellow Sac Spider Bite:

The Look:

  • You’ll typically see two small puncture marks from the spider’s fangs.
  • The bite area will become red, swollen, and often quite painful.
  • There might be some local redness and swelling around the bite.

The Feel:

  • Intense itching: This is a hallmark of a yellow sac spider bite. The itching can be severe and persistent.
  • Burning sensation: You might also experience a burning sensation at the bite site.
  • Pain: The bite can be quite painful, often described as a sharp, stinging sensation.

When to Worry:

  • Severe pain or discomfort
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Nausea, vomiting, or fever
  • Signs of infection (pus, redness spreading)

If you suspect a serious spider bite, seek medical attention immediately.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

FAQs: Spider Bite Symptoms

A: Common symptoms include redness, swelling, pain at the bite site, itching, and sometimes two small puncture marks. Most bites are mild and resolve on their own.
A: Spider bites often have two small puncture marks, redness, swelling, and localized pain. However, many bites resemble other insect bites or skin irritations, so a spider bite diagnosis can be challenging.
A: No, most spider bites are harmless and cause only minor irritation. Only a few species, like the black widow or brown recluse, can cause more severe reactions.
A: Symptoms may include intense pain, muscle cramps, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
A: A brown recluse bite may start as mild pain and redness but can develop into a necrotic (open) wound over time. Fever, chills, and body aches may also occur.
A: Yes, some people may experience an allergic reaction to a spider bite, leading to symptoms like swelling, rash, itching, and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis.
A: For most spider bites, symptoms resolve within a few days. Severe bites, especially from venomous spiders, may take weeks to heal and require medical treatment.
A: Clean the bite area with soap and water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and monitor for signs of worsening symptoms. Seek medical attention if severe symptoms develop.
A: Yes, scratching or improper care of the bite area can lead to secondary infections, causing increased redness, pus, and fever.
A: Seek medical help if you experience intense pain, a spreading rash, necrosis (skin breakdown), fever, muscle cramps, difficulty breathing, or if the bite area does not improve within a few days.
A: Necrosis appears as a black or dark-colored patch of dead skin that may ulcerate. It’s commonly associated with brown recluse bites and requires medical treatment.
A: Yes, children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to severe reactions or complications from spider bites.
Slide

"My family has been an H2 customer for about 6 months. We built a home in Saratoga Springs, in an area that has a lot of insects and spiders. After seeing a few spiders in the house, we decided to use their services. They were prompt to respond, and very professional. I have not seen any spiders in our house since that time. We have called them for a few other issues (mice and may flies) and they always come right out and help. The staff are very friendly, very helpful and very professional. They never seem bothered by us calling and always ask us to call if something else is needed. They seem to value their customers very much, and they strive to provide a great product. I would highly recommend them based on my experiences."

-Brett H.

Slide

“These guys are seriously the best! We’ve worked with them since 2017 in our townhome in Eagle Mountain to now when we moved to Sandy! They just came to treat our new home and I feel so much better knowing we’re covered again!

We never saw any bugs at the last place, and two days after we told them we were worried about mice at the townhome, they were there taking care of it.

Amazing customer service and always very thorough!”

-Sierra M.