Types of House Spiders (Guide)

Are you curious about the different types of house spiders that may be lurking in your home? From common house spiders to venomous species, there is a wide variety of house spider varieties found in the United States. Understanding these spiders and their behaviors can help you coexist peacefully with these eight-legged creatures.

Key Takeaways:

• There are numerous types of house spiders in the United States, each with its own characteristics.
• The common house spider, cellar spider, and daddy long-legs spider are harmless and commonly found indoors.
• Black widow spiders and brown recluse spiders are venomous and should be approached with caution.
• Funnel web spiders, wolf spiders, jumping spiders, and sac spiders are also commonly encountered house spiders.
• While most house spiders are harmless, preventative measures can be taken to minimize infestations.

Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)

The common house spider, also known as the American house spider, is the most frequently seen spider in North America. They are usually small, with round bodies and a drab coloration ranging from yellowish gray to brown or black. These spiders are harmless and typically build messy cobwebs in corners or other concealed areas of the home.

Unlike some other spider species, the common house spider does not spin elaborate webs. Instead, they create a web that is irregular and messy in appearance. This type of web is often referred to as a “cobweb” and is used to catch small insects and other prey.

While the presence of cobwebs may be unsightly, it is important to remember that common house spiders play a beneficial role in controlling the population of nuisance insects in and around homes. They are natural predators and help to keep the ecosystem in balance.

Common House Spider Characteristics:

• Small size with round bodies
• Drab coloration ranging from yellowish gray to brown or black
• Build messy cobwebs in corners or concealed areas
• Feed on small insects and other prey
• Harmless to humans

Cellar Spider (Pholcus phalangioides)

The cellar spider, also known as the long-bodied cellar spider, is a common sight in dark, moist environments such as cellars, warehouses, and garages. These spiders are often mistaken for daddy long-legs spiders, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. They are harmless to humans and actually play a beneficial role by controlling the population of other pests like insects and other spiders.

Cellar spiders have long, spindly legs and a small, elongated body. They are adept at building messy cobwebs, which they use to catch their prey. These cobwebs can often be found in corners or other concealed areas of the home. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, cellar spiders pose no threat to humans and are generally considered to be nuisance pests.

Characteristics of Cellar Spiders:

• Long, spindly legs
• Small, elongated body
• Build messy cobwebs in corners or concealed areas
• Help control other pests by eating insects and other spiders

It is important to note that cellar spiders are not venomous and do not bite humans unless they feel threatened. If you come across a cellar spider in your home, it is best to simply leave it be or gently relocate it outside if desired. These spiders are beneficial in controlling the population of other pests and can coexist peacefully with humans.

Daddy Long-Legs Spider (Pholcidae)

The Daddy Long-Legs spider, also known as harvestmen, is often mistaken for cellar spiders due to their similar appearance. These spiders have a unique body shape with a single segment and long, thin legs. Despite their creepy appearance, Daddy Long-Legs spiders are not venomous and pose no threat to humans. They are primarily found outdoors in wooded areas or gardens, where they help control populations of insects and other pests.

Unlike other spiders, Daddy Long-Legs spiders do not build webs to catch their prey. Instead, they rely on their extraordinary agility to hunt actively. These spiders have excellent eyesight and are capable of pouncing on their prey with precision. Their diet consists mainly of small insects, making them beneficial to have around.

“Daddy Long-Legs spiders are often misunderstood and feared due to their appearance, but they are harmless creatures that play a vital role in our ecosystem by controlling populations of pests.”

If you come across a Daddy Long-Legs spider in your home, there is no need to panic. These spiders are not aggressive and will typically retreat rather than bite when threatened. If you prefer to relocate them outside, gently catch the spider in a cup or container and release it in a suitable outdoor habitat. Remember to handle them with care to avoid causing harm to the delicate legs of these fascinating creatures.

Interesting Facts about Daddy Long-Legs Spider:

• Daddy Long-Legs spiders are not spiders at all, but belong to the order Opiliones.
• They are known for their ability to detach and discard their legs when threatened, which may continue twitching as a defense mechanism.
• Unlike true spiders, Daddy Long-Legs spiders do not have venom glands and fangs, making them unable to bite humans.
• These spiders have a global presence, with over 6,500 known species found in various habitats around the world.

Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus spp.)

The black widow spider, belonging to the Latrodectus genus, is one of the most well-known and feared spiders in the United States. These spiders are easily recognized by their striking black coloration and the red hourglass-shaped marking on the underside of the abdomen. While black widows are widespread, they are not commonly found inside homes.

Black widow spiders are venomous, and their bites can cause severe symptoms. However, it’s important to note that bites from these spiders are relatively rare, as they typically prefer to stay in secluded outdoor areas such as woodpiles, garages, or sheds. When threatened, black widow spiders may bite, and the venom injected can lead to muscle aches, nausea, and breathing difficulties.

If you suspect the presence of black widow spiders in your home, it is crucial to exercise caution and seek professional pest control assistance. They can help identify and safely remove black widow spiders, reducing the risk of bites and potential health complications.

Identifying a Black Widow Spider

Black widow spiders have identifiable characteristics that can help distinguish them from other spiders. Here are some key features to look for:

• Black, shiny body with a rounded shape
• Red or orange hourglass-shaped marking on the underside of the abdomen
• Size ranges from 1/2 inch to 1 inch in length

Remember, it is always best to exercise caution and avoid handling black widow spiders, as their bites can be dangerous.

Brown Recluse Spider (Latrodectus geometricus)

The brown recluse spider, scientifically known as Latrodectus geometricus, is a venomous spider species commonly found in the Midwest and Southern United States. These spiders are characterized by their brown coloration and distinct violin-shaped marking on their head, which gives them the nickname “violin spiders.”

Despite their venomous nature, brown recluse spiders are not aggressive and typically only bite when they feel threatened or cornered. Their bites can cause necrotic lesions, which are areas of dead skin that may take a long time to heal. Although rare, some individuals may have severe reactions to the venom, leading to more serious symptoms.

If you suspect a brown recluse spider infestation in your home, it is important to take measures to eliminate them and prevent future encounters. Seal cracks and crevices where spiders can enter, remove clutter and debris, and keep your living space clean and organized. Additionally, it is advisable to wear protective clothing and shoes when working in areas where these spiders may be present, such as basements and attics.

Remember, if you are bitten by a spider and suspect it may be a brown recluse spider, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Proper identification by a healthcare professional is essential for appropriate treatment.

Funnel Web Spider (Agelenidae)

The funnel web spider, also known as the funnel weaver spider or hobo spider, is a common species found in many parts of the United States. These spiders are recognized for their distinctive funnel-shaped webs, which they use to catch prey. Despite their intimidating appearance, funnel web spiders are not considered dangerous to humans and their bites are generally harmless.

Funnel web spiders typically build their webs in areas with low human activity, such as windows, doorways, and cellars. Their webs are constructed with sticky silk threads that guide prey into the funnel, where the spider waits patiently to strike. While they may appear menacing, these spiders are actually beneficial as they help control the population of nuisance insects around homes and gardens.

“Funnel web spiders, including the hobo spider, are known for their fascinating web-building techniques. The intricate funnel-shaped webs they construct enable them to capture prey efficiently, making them valuable allies in natural pest control.” – Dr. Jane Anderson, Arachnologist

It is important to note that funnel web spiders were once believed to have dangerous bites capable of causing necrosis, but further studies have shown that they are not medically significant to humans. If you come across a funnel web spider or its web, it is best to leave it undisturbed as they play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance.

Funnel Web Spider Fact Table

Wolf Spider (Lycosidae)

Wolf spiders belong to the family Lycosidae and are known as hunting spiders. Unlike other spiders, they do not build webs to catch their prey. Instead, they rely on their speed and agility to chase down their targets. These large and hairy spiders are commonly found in outdoor environments such as gardens, fields, and woodlands.

One of the distinguishing features of wolf spiders is their excellent eyesight. They have a set of large, forward-facing eyes that allow them to track and ambush their prey with precision. This keen vision also helps them navigate their surroundings and avoid potential threats. With their powerful jaws, they are capable of subduing a wide range of insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, and even other spiders.

The Life of a Wolf Spider

Wolf spiders have a fascinating life cycle. As adults, they mate during the spring and summer, and the female carries her eggs in a silk sac attached to her abdomen. Once the eggs hatch, the spiderlings climb onto their mother’s back, where they remain until they are large enough to fend for themselves. This maternal behavior, known as “spiderling riding,” provides protection and improves the chances of survival for the offspring.

While wolf spiders may seem intimidating due to their size and appearance, they are not aggressive towards humans. They would rather retreat and hide than engage in confrontation. However, if threatened, they may bite as a defense mechanism, causing mild discomfort and swelling. It is important to note that their venom is not considered dangerous to humans, and severe reactions are rare.

If you come across a wolf spider in your home, it is best to safely catch and release it back into the outdoors. This allows the spider to continue its beneficial role in controlling other insect populations. However, if you have concerns about spider infestations or need assistance with their removal, it is advisable to seek professional help from pest control experts.

Jumping Spider (Salticidae)

Jumping spiders, belonging to the Salticidae family, are fascinating creatures known for their agility and active hunting behavior. These small arachnids possess excellent eyesight and the ability to pounce on their prey with astonishing precision. With over 6,000 species worldwide, jumping spiders are incredibly diverse, coming in a variety of colors, shapes, and patterns.

Unlike most spiders that rely on webs to catch their meals, jumping spiders are agile hunters. They use their keen eyesight to locate their prey, which mainly consists of insects like flies, mosquitoes, and other small arthropods. Jumping spiders are highly adept at stalking and capturing their victims, often leaping onto them from a distance. This unique hunting behavior sets them apart from other spider species and showcases their remarkable athleticism.

Despite their formidable hunting skills, jumping spiders are harmless to humans and pose no significant threat. In fact, they can be beneficial to have around as they help control populations of nuisance insects in and around our homes. Their small size, vibrant colors, and curious behavior make them a captivating sight for nature enthusiasts and spider lovers alike.

“Jumping spiders are among the most charismatic and endearing creatures in the arachnid world. Their incredible agility and intricate courtship displays make them a favorite subject for macrophotography enthusiasts.”

Jumping Spider Facts:

• Jumping spiders have specialized muscles and hydraulic systems in their legs, allowing them to jump impressive distances relative to their size.
• These spiders are known for their excellent vision, with some species having four pairs of eyes that provide a wide field of view.
• Male jumping spiders often perform elaborate courtship dances to attract females, showcasing their vibrant colors and intricate movements.
• Some species of jumping spiders can change their body coloration to blend in with their surroundings, providing camouflage from predators or prey.

In conclusion, jumping spiders, with their extraordinary hunting abilities and vibrant appearances, are a fascinating group of arachnids. They play a valuable role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling insect populations. So, the next time you spot a tiny jumper with impressive eyes, take a moment to appreciate the beauty and skill of these agile hunters.

Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium spp.)

Sac spiders, also known as yellow sac spiders, are a common type of house spider found both inside and outside homes. They are named for their habit of building small, sac-like structures out of silk, where they hide during the day. Sac spiders are generally small in size, with pale yellow or light greenish bodies. They are known for their ability to move quickly and their preference for hunting other insects rather than building webs.

One important aspect to note about sac spiders is their venom. While these spiders are venomous, their bites are usually not considered medically significant for the average healthy individual. However, for individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing health conditions, sac spider bites can cause more severe symptoms and may require medical attention. It’s always important to seek medical advice if you have concerns about a spider bite or notice any abnormal reactions.

To prevent sac spider infestations in your home, it is recommended to maintain a clean and tidy living environment. Regularly clean and vacuum corners, walls, and other areas where spiders may build their sacs. Seal any cracks or openings in doors, windows, and walls to prevent spiders from entering the house. Removing outdoor debris and keeping vegetation trimmed away from the house can also help reduce spider populations. If you notice a significant infestation or have concerns about venomous spiders, it is best to consult with a professional pest control service for effective and safe management.

Overall, while sac spiders may look intimidating and have venomous bites, they are generally not a major threat to human health unless there are underlying health conditions. By taking preventive measures and maintaining a clean living environment, you can minimize the chances of encountering these spiders in your home.

Conclusion

After exploring the various types of house spiders, it is important to note that the majority of these spiders are harmless and do not pose a threat to humans. However, if you find yourself dealing with a spider infestation or have concerns about venomous spiders, there are steps you can take to control their numbers and prevent further infestations.

One effective method of house spider control is to seal any cracks and crevices in your home. Spiders often enter through these small openings, so by sealing them off, you can reduce their access points. Additionally, removing clutter and keeping your home clean and tidy can help discourage spiders from taking up residence.

If you prefer natural pest control methods, there are several options available. You can use essential oils such as peppermint or tea tree oil, which spiders find unpleasant. Simply dilute a few drops in water and spray the solution in areas where spiders are likely to hide. Another natural repellent is vinegar. Spraying a mixture of vinegar and water around windows, doorways, and other entry points can deter spiders.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to spider infestations. By taking these simple steps and maintaining a clean and tidy environment, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of encountering spiders in your home. If you continue to have issues with spiders or are concerned about venomous spiders, it is always best to seek professional pest control assistance.