Spider
Actual size: 0.5 in.
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Behavior:
Spiders are predators feeding primarily on living insects or other animals. They
may actively search for their prey, hide and wait for them to pass, or build webs
to trap flying insects. Most web-spinning spiders build and abandon several webs
per year. The webs are produced by glands on the spider's abdomen. Silk is used
to construct webs, safety lines, egg sacs and parachutes for long-distance travel.
Several species of spiders enter homes and become a nuisance. Abandoned webs collect
dust, resulting in cobwebs. However, spiders are also considered beneficial because
they feed on insects.
Newly hatched spiders are tiny and easily enter homes through screens or around
loose-fitting doors and windows.
Types:
There are about 3,000 species of spiders in the United States. Although all spiders
are venomous, only a very few can inflict painful and dangerous bites. Most spiders
are not harmful to humans or property.
Distinguising Marks:
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Eight legs.
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Two body regions.
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Males are usually smaller and color-marked differently than females.
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Life Cycle:
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Spiders lay eggs in a silken egg sac, either carried around by the female or hidden
in the web.
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Egg sacs of large spiders may contain several hundred eggs.
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Eggs hatch in about two to three weeks after they are deposited.
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Most young spiders mature to adults in about one year.
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Male and female spiders live separately and come together only to mate.
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Spiders can survive for long periods without feeding. Some have been kept alive
for two years without feeding.
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Follow these sanitation tips for effective spider control:
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Don't leave outside lights on all night long, as they attract flying insects, which
in turn attract spiders.
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Keep trash, lumber piles, bricks and other outdoor structures in good, clean order.
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Brush down spider webs.
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Destroy egg sacs.
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Use an attachment on your vacuum cleaner to clean walls.
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If you would like more information or tips for removing spiders from your home,
please contact our
Consumer Relationship Center.
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