Spiders may not be everyone’s favorite houseguest, but they’re a common sight in homes across Tallahassee. The good news is that most of them are harmless and even help control other pests. However, it’s still helpful to know which spiders you might come across and how to deal with them. Here’s a quick guide to the most common spiders you might find in your Tallahassee home.
Common Spiders Found in Tallahassee
House Spider
The house spider is one of the most common types you’ll encounter in your home. These small, brownish-yellow spiders often build their webs in corners of windows, ceilings, and closets. They’re harmless to humans and mostly stay out of sight. If their webs start to pile up, just clear them away with a broom or vacuum.
Southern Black Widow
The Southern Black Widow spider is one to watch out for! With their shiny black bodies and distinctive red hourglass marking, these spiders are easy to identify. While they’re not aggressive, their bites can be dangerous, causing muscle pain and nausea. You’re most likely to find them in dark, undisturbed areas like basements, garages, or sheds, so take caution when cleaning these spaces.
Wolf Spider
Don’t be alarmed by the size of a wolf spider. These large, hairy spiders might look intimidating, but they’re generally harmless to humans. They are ground hunters and don’t build webs. If you find one in your home, it’s likely they are on the hunt for insects to eat. Wolf spiders often hide in basements, garages, or under furniture.
Orb Weaver
Orb weavers are known for the large, intricate webs they spin. These spiders come in a variety of colors and patterns, often with spiny or bulbous bodies. They tend to set up their webs outdoors, but you might find one sneaking into your home through a door or window. While their webs can be a nuisance, orb weavers themselves pose no threat to humans.
How to Keep Spiders in Check
If you’re not a fan of sharing your space with spiders, here are a few tips to reduce their presence in your home:
- Keep your home clean: Regular vacuuming, especially in corners and behind furniture, can help remove spiders and their webs.
- Seal entry points: Check for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations, and seal them to prevent spiders from entering.
- Reduce clutter: Spiders love hiding in dark, cluttered spaces, so keeping your home organized can reduce their hiding spots.
- Use natural repellents: Spiders aren’t fans of certain smells, like peppermint oil. Spraying a mix of water and essential oil around windows and doors can help deter them.
While spiders might not be your favorite visitors, they do play a role in controlling other pests. Still, it’s always good to know what kind of spider you’re dealing with in your Tallahassee home! If you ever feel uncertain or spot a dangerous spider, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local pest control company near you for a free inspection and treatment recommendations.
