Jumping Spiders
May 2, 2010 by Aaron Steen
Jumping Spiders
This spider gets its name from the fact that they can jump to get to their prey. They are small about 4-10 mm. Jumping spiders have large eyes and a “fuzzy” appearance. Some have red on their back which can be mistaken for black widow markings. They are harmless to humans and can be found indoors.
Jumping spiders do not catch prey in webs but will have small webs for protection and escape. They are unusual from other spiders in that they will be quite active during the day and love warm, sunny days. They can jump up to 20 times their body length. They can be found on cement porches, woodpiles, fences and old wood. Control is obtained through spraying
house spiders
May 1, 2010 by Aaron Steen
House Spiders
House spiders are found all over the U.S. and the world. They are the most prevalent spider in homes and structures. The webs can become a nuisance if not removed on a regular basis. They are about 5-8mm in size and are brown or black colored.
House spiders prefer dark, moist areas with high numbers of other insects. They can be controlled with spraying and removal of webs and eggs. They are harmless to people but rather a housekeeping nuisance
hobo spiders
April 30, 2010 by Aaron Steen
Hobo Spiders
These spiders are called hobos because they hitch rides with humans and transfer to different areas. They are found all over the western states but the range is spreading rapidly. It is thought that the bite might cause legions but medical research is foggy on this subject.
Adults are 11-14mm in length and are off brown colored. They prefer dark, moist areas that are undisturbed. They are not good climbers so they are mainly found along the ground. Hobo spiders will make nests in cracks and also in the ground. Usually, the holes are surrounded by the silken web which helps catch prey. Hobos feed on other insects and other spiders. Control is the same as other spiders with spray and keeping clutter off the ground around the house. When these spiders invade homes, crack and crevice treatments are necessary. Remove webs and eggs to keep numbers in check.
daddy longlegs spiders
April 29, 2010 by Aaron Steen
Cellar/Daddy Longlegs Spiders
There are about 20 different species of daddy longlegs spiders or cellar spiders in the U.S. They are more of a nuisance because of the immense amount of webs they produce. Daddy longlegs have long legs about 2-8mm in length and are off brown colored. They are usually found along basement ceilings and front porches.
Daddy longlegs are harmless to people and feed on other insects and spiders. Pest control can be used to keep numbers down but homeowners can also remove webs and eggs to keep numbers down. They are the most common spider of homeowners in Iowa and many other states.
brown recluse spiders
April 28, 2010 by Aaron Steen
Brown Recluse Spiders
Brown Recluse spiders are also called fiddle backs. They get the name from their reclusive behavior and fiddle shaped design on their back. Adults are generally about the size of a quarter. They have long legs and hold themselves up high off the ground. Brown recluses are light brown in color. They do not make webs but prefer dark, moist, undisturbed areas like crawlspaces, attics and closets. If provoked, they will bite and it can be painful.
There is no cure for infected areas other than removing skin and areas that are dying. If left alone, infected areas spread all over. Medical attention should be sought if bites are suspected. Outdoors they prefer shingles, unused boxes, woodpiles, or clutter in garages for shelter. Pest control is recommended for houses with these spiders.