Cobweb Spiders

Identification

colour
Varies widely in colour
description
There are more than 230 different species of cobweb spiders in North America alone and they vary widely in appearance. However, they all have eight eyes, which form two rows, as well as a round abdomen and long, thin, legs. The first pair of legs are the longest, and the last pair of hind legs features a row of microscopic, bristle-like hairs. Their webs are irregular, messy-looking and sticky.
notes
Also called cobweb weavers or comb-footed spiders.
size
They vary in size with many species measuring 3 mm to 10 mm long

Why do I have cobweb spiders

Cobweb spiders like to spin their webs in dry, protected locations, such as dark corners of buildings like barns, garages, and sheds. Cobweb spiders will also spin their webs under outdoor decks and in piles of wood or debris. They feed on insects and other invertebrates.

How worried should I be about cobweb spiders

Cobweb spiders are considered a pest due to their messy, unkempt webs, but their presence can also be alarming for residents, guests, and anyone with arachnophobia in particular. These spiders can also reproduce quickly, laying hundreds of eggs at a time. Notably, one specific species, the black widow spider, has a dangerous, neurotoxic bite, which affects the nervous system, causing symptoms, such as, difficulty breathing, nausea, chills, swelling, sweating, weakness and fever as wells abdominal and chest pain. If bitten by a black widow spider, you seek seek medical attention as quickly as possible. If you suspect a cobweb spider infestation, you should take action immediately. Due to the sheer number of eggs these spiders lay, only a professional pest control service will be able to stop a cobweb spider infestation and ensure they don’t return.

How can I prevent cobweb spiders invading

Clean the house regularly, Remove crumbs and excess moisture, Use caulk to seal any cracks and crevices, Check for gaps around doors and windows, Repair broken or torn window screens