Spiders (Araneae) are fascinating arachnids known for their web-spinning abilities. Let us learn more about spider behavior, types, lifecycle, and interesting facts about spiders.
Spiders do not have antennae and can be spotted by their 8 legs. Their front part contains the eyes, mouthparts, and legs, while the abdomen contains the silk-producing spinnerets. Spiders also have multiple eyes, usually ranging from six to eight, arranged in various patterns depending on the species.
Spiders vary greatly in appearance. Spiders come in various colors like brown, black, and gray, or even bright colors like striped red and black. Some have distinctive markings, such as the red hourglass on the underside of a Black Widow spider.
Spiders are carnivorous, primarily feeding on insects and other small arthropods. They use their silk to create webs to trap the prey. Some larger spider species can capture and consume small vertebrates like lizards, frogs, and birds.
At home, they feed on small insects trapped in spider webs. They do not eat household items or damage them.
Spiders can be found in almost every habitat on Earth, from tropical rainforests and deserts to grasslands and urban environments. Spiders usually choose dark, isolated areas such as basements, attics, and wall corners.
Outdoors, they live in gardens, trees, forests, caves, and even water surfaces. Web-building spiders often choose locations that are sheltered from wind and rain.
Spiders undergo simple metamorphosis. The lifecycle stages include:
Egg: Laid in silk sacs, which can contain hundreds of eggs.
Spiderling: Hatchlings resemble miniature adults and undergo several molts(shedding skin) as they grow.
Adult: After several molts, they reach maturity.
Most spiders live one to two years, though some species, like tarantulas, can live up to 20 years.
There are about 45,000 species of spiders in the world. The common species found in the US are:
Inspection: Carefully inspect your home for signs of spiders. Look for webs, egg sacs, and active spiders in dark, hidden places like basements, attics, and closets.
Cleaning: Keep your home clean by regularly dusting and vacuuming, especially in corners, on ceilings, and under furniture. This helps remove webs, spiders, and their egg sacs.
Exclusion: Prevent spiders from getting inside by sealing cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls. Install door sweeps and fix any damaged screens.
Treatment: Use spider-specific insecticides or natural repellents like peppermint oil and vinegar. If you have a severe infestation, call a professional spider exterminator to safely and effectively remove the spiders.
Signs of a spider infestation include:
Webs: Spider webs are found in wall corners, attics, basements and other areas free from disturbances.
Spider sightings: Frequent sightings of spiders, particularly in large numbers.
Egg sacs: Silk sacs containing eggs found in hidden areas.
Prey remains Presence of dead insects caught in webs or scattered around.
Contact an expert spider treatment company if you notice a severe spider infestation.
Spiders have eight legs and lack antennae.
Spider bites are different from ants or bedbugs. To treat spider bites, clean the bite with antiseptic, use ice to reduce swelling, and take pain relievers as needed.
Spiders can survive several weeks to months without food, depending on the species.
The most deadly spider in the world is the Brazilian Wandering Spider. It is known for its potent venom.
Spider bites itch due to the body's allergic reaction to the spider's venom. It is recommended that you should not itch the bit area, as it may increase the irritation and cause more pain.
The lifespan of a typical spider is 1-2 years. However, some spiders live longer than 20 years in captivity,
Yes, some spiders do eat their webs. They do it to recycle the proteins.
Keep your home clean, reduce clutter, seal entry points, and use natural repellents like peppermint oil. If these methods do not work connect with a professional spider treatment service.
While most spiders are harmless to humans, a few species have venom that can cause significant medical issues. The Black Widow and Brown Recluse are the most well-known venomous spiders in the US. Black Widow bites can cause severe pain and muscle cramps, while Brown Recluse bites can result in necrotic skin lesions. However, spiders rarely bite, they bite only when they sense a threat.
