Spiders play significant roles in our ecosystem by hunting and feeding on pests and controlling insect populations. They are important in limiting pests that damage plants and crops, making them beneficial to the environment.
Unfortunately, when spiders enter our homes, they can become a major worry, especially since two of the most venomous spiders in North America are common in our area. If you are concerned about a spider infestation, it’s time to talk to a Salt Lake City pest control company like Pest Pro Pest Control for help.
Characteristics Of Common Spiders
Spiders are eight-legged arachnids, and usually enter buildings looking for shelter, food, and water. Most Salt Lake City spiders are nuisances, but if they’re dangerous or not, people would prefer spiders remain outside their homes. The best way to prevent spiders from infesting your home is to remove any potential havens. Keeping garages, basements, and attics clutter-free and clean, sealing any cracks or crevices around the home, and avoiding leaving clothing and shoes on the floor, are all good starting steps to take.
Some Spiders Are More Dangerous Than Others
There are many different species of spiders in Salt Lake City and the areas surrounding the city. These spiders vary in color and size, depending on their species, although they all come in various colors and sizes. The worst spiders in Utah are two of the most dangerous spiders in the U.S., both possessing venom that causes severe problems if left unattended.
Black widow spiders are typically jet black and shiny with a red hourglass shape on their abdomen. These spiders seek out dark, dry locations which are protected and tend to spin their webs near ground level. Male black widows rarely bite, although females are aggressive and will bite, especially in defense of their eggs. Symptoms of a black widow bite include increased blood pressure, nausea, sweating, and fever. These bites are rarely fatal if treated.
Brown recluse spiders are usually light brown to dark brown, with a dark brown violin marking on their back. These spiders are known for their secretive behavior, often hiding inside storage bins and in dark places such as window moldings or under furniture. Attics, crawlspaces, and closets are common hiding places of this type of spider, providing dry, dark, warm environments. This spider bites in defense, and the bites are not typically felt at first but may produce intense pain. Common symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite are fever, difficulty sleeping, and intense pain. In serious cases, and when medical attention is not sought, a brown recluse bite can lead to necrosis of the flesh which may require surgery.
Factors That Attract Spiders Into Your Home
There are certain things that can attract spiders to your home, even though these may not be obvious.
Here are some of the things that could be attracting spiders to your Salt Lake City home:
- Spiders can use excess clutter and debris as hiding spots.
- Landscape elements such as bushes, trees, shrubs, and garden areas make excellent habitats for spiders.
- Outdoor lights attract insects that are prey to spiders, attracting them to your home.
- Cracks and holes in the roofline, exterior walls, and foundation of your home make excellent entry points for spiders.
- Drains, vents, and pipes are entry points for spiders.
Decreasing clutter, cutting back landscaping, turning off outside lights, sealing entry points, and screening vents and drains will help to prevent spiders in the future.
When you’re dealing with spiders and have taken steps to remove any of the factors that may be attracting them to your home, you can turn to the professionals at Pest Pro Pest Control for help. We know how to keep spiders out of your Salt Lake City home and with our Pest-Free Guarantee, your spider problem will be a thing of the past.
Quality Pest Control Makes The Best Spider Control
When you’re trying to find out how to get rid of spiders in your home, reach out to a professional pest control company skilled in the permanent removal of spiders in your home. Contact us to find out about our two-series treatment to kill live spiders and break the life cycle of the spider population for guaranteed removal of the current spider population. Pest Pro Pest Control also offers a spider maintenance plan which includes yearly maintenance if you see spiders in between appointments. Contact us now to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Salt Lake City.