Common Fall Spider Invaders

Common Fall Spider Invaders

Autumn is here, and while we revel in the crisp air and vibrant foliage, it’s also the season when certain eight-legged intruders decide to make our homes their own. Let’s explore some of the most common spider invaders you might encounter this fall and how to keep them at bay.

The Usual Suspects

1. House Spider (Tegenaria domestica)

Description: Often found in corners or under furniture, house spiders are small, brown, and not particularly flashy. They build messy, sheet-like webs.

Behavior: House spiders are relatively harmless and prefer to stay hidden, preying on other insects.

Prevention Tips: Regularly vacuuming and dusting can help reduce their numbers. Seal cracks and gaps in doors and windows to keep them out.

2. Cellar Spider (Pholcus phalangioides)

Description: Also known as daddy long legs, these spiders have elongated legs and a small body, often found in dark, damp areas like basements and cellars.

Behavior: Cellar spiders are known for their web-spinning abilities and can often be seen hanging upside down in their webs.

Prevention Tips: Reduce moisture levels in your home’s basement and use a dehumidifier if necessary. Regular cleaning can also help.

3. Wolf Spider (Lycosidae)

Description: These spiders are larger, hairy, and usually found on the ground rather than in webs. They have excellent vision and are fast runners.

Behavior: Wolf spiders are hunters and do not spin webs to catch prey. They can be startling due to their size and speed but are not aggressive towards humans.

Prevention Tips: Keep your home clutter-free, especially in basements and garages. Seal entry points and ensure that door sweeps and window screens are intact.

4. Brown Recluse (Loxosceles reclusa)

Description: Brown recluse spiders are light to dark brown with a distinctive violin-shaped marking on their back.

Behavior: These spiders are reclusive and prefer undisturbed areas such as attics, closets, and storage boxes. Their bites can be medically significant.

Prevention Tips: Store items in plastic containers rather than cardboard, and wear gloves when moving items that have been in storage. Regular inspection of rarely used areas can help prevent infestations.

5. Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis)

Description: Hobo spiders are brown with a herringbone pattern on their abdomen. They are often confused with other harmless house spiders.

Behavior: Hobo spiders are known for their funnel-shaped webs and can be found in basements, crawl spaces, and around the foundation of homes.

Prevention Tips: Keep your home dry and clean, and check for and seal any cracks in the foundation or walls where these spiders might enter.

Tips for Keeping Spiders at Bay

1. Regular Cleaning: Spiders are less likely to take up residence in a clean and clutter-free home. Regularly vacuum and dust, paying special attention to corners, under furniture, and other hiding spots.
2. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation. Use weatherstripping, caulking, and door sweeps to seal these entry points.
3. Reduce Outdoor Attractants: Keep outdoor lights turned off or use yellow bulbs, which are less attractive to insects (spider prey). Also, keep the perimeter of your home free of debris, leaf litter, and other materials that spiders might use for shelter.
4. Natural Repellents: Some essential oils, like peppermint, tea tree, and citrus, are known to repel spiders. Mix a few drops with water and spray around windows, doors, and other entry points.
5. Professional Help: If you have a significant spider infestation, it may be best to consult a pest control professional who can provide targeted treatments.

Remember, most spiders are not harmful and actually play a beneficial role in controlling other insect populations. However, taking these steps can help ensure your home remains a spider-free sanctuary this fall.