Spring is one of the top seasons for crickets, ants, bees, cockroaches, pincher bugs, silverfish and spider activity, a fact that can drive horror into the heart of any homeowner. While spiders can be beneficial creatures and help to manage other pest populations, some can be highly harmful, and finding an infestation inside of your home can be alarming, to say the least. All Southern California homeowners should know all about spider species, why they seek out residential shelter, and how to get rid of them, in order to keep their home comfortable and safe.
Why are spiders active in the spring?
Spiders are especially active in the springtime because this is when they are most likely to find food to feed their young. With the emergence of new insects and other small critters in the warmer temperatures, spiders have an opportunity to maximize their hunting success. Additionally, spiders are more likely to come out of hibernation in the spring.
What spiders are common in Southern California?
Southern California is home to a variety of spiders, some of which are quite common to find in homes and gardens. Most of these spiders are harmless and even beneficial to have in the home, as they feed on other insects such as flies and mosquitoes. Some common spiders include:
- The black widow
- The yellow sac spider
- The garden spider
- The wolf spider
Are spiders dangerous to humans?
Spiders are generally not dangerous to humans, as the majority of the species are harmless. However, some spiders can be dangerous when they bite humans, and certain spiders have venom that can cause significant symptoms in humans, such as the black widow. Some symptoms of spider bites include pain, swelling, difficulty breathing, and even death in extreme cases. Black widow bites require a tetanus shot, and depending on severity, antibiotics, wound dressing, and even skin grafts might be necessary. It is important to be aware of the types of spiders in your area that may be dangerous and to take precautions to avoid contact with them.
Images courtesy of Hubpages, Healthline and University of Nebraska
Spider behavior and habitat
Spiders in Southern California can be found in a variety of habitats. They are most commonly found in gardens, parks, forests, and other outdoor areas, as well as indoors in residential homes. Spiders typically spend their days in their webs, waiting for prey to come to them. Hunting spiders are more active and will actively search for prey and use their webs to capture food. Most spiders prey on small insects such as flies, mosquitoes, moths, and beetles. Some spiders also feed on larger prey, such as crickets, grasshoppers, and even small vertebrates, such as lizards and frogs. Certain species of spiders are more active during the day, while other species, like black widows, are nocturnal and are more active at night. As the larger majority of Southern California spider species are more active at night, homeowners should pay careful attention to where they reach or grab to ensure they don’t disturb any nocturnal spiders.
Why do spiders come into my house and garden
Spiders come into residential homes and gardens for various reasons. The most common reason is that they are looking for food. They may also be searching for a place to build their webs or nest. In addition, spiders may be seeking a place to protect themselves from the elements and predators in the wild. These pests can find safe, comfortable places to rest in homes and gardens.
Signs of a spring spider invasion
Spider infestations are often difficult to detect; however, signs of a spider invasion may include increased sightings of webs, egg sacs, and actual spiders. Webs can be found in corners of a room, in dark crevices, and in other parts of a home that are undisturbed. Egg sacs are small, round, and often white in color, and can be found attached to webs or other surfaces. Actual spiders can be seen in areas of a home that are rarely used, such as attics, basements, and storage closets. If you see any of these signs of a spider invasion, it is important to contact a professional pest control service to address the problem.
How to prevent a spring spider infestation and get rid of spiders
Spider pest control in California is a critical issue due to the wide variety of spider species that can be found in the area. Black widows and wolf spiders are all common in California. Proper prevention techniques are essential in order to reduce the amount of spider activity in residential homes. Regular inspections, sealing off entry points, and reducing clutter and debris are all helpful in preventing spiders. Additionally, chemical treatments can be used to eliminate any spiders that may have made it inside. Other methods of removing spring spiders include spraying strong smells, like citrus, peppermint, or cinnamon, as well as using spider bait traps and sprays. However, the most effective method of preventing and removing spider populations is professional residential pest control assistance, especially when dealing with a more dangerous species of spider. AIPM assists all Southern California homeowners in the prevention and removal of spider infestations, for locations in Simi Valley, Santa Clarita, Oxnard, Sherman Oaks, Malibu, Woodland Hills, and beyond!
Conclusion
As other pest activity increases, so do spiders. The warmer weather causes spiders’ food sources to surge, resulting in a higher chance of homeowners spotting a spider in and around their residential property. Some spider species can be highly dangerous to all home residents, while for others, just the idea of an outright invasion by even the more harmless spider species can be overwhelmingly frightening. That’s why all spring spider home invasions are best left to the professionals, like AIPM.
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