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For many, spotting a spider in their home brings an immediate shiver and a desire to see it gone. But are all spiders truly a threat? While some spiders are indeed a concern, many are actually harmless, and some can even be beneficial, preying on other pests in your home. Understanding the difference is key to knowing when to reach for a shoe and when to reach for the phone.
In Mississippi, we encounter a variety of spiders, from common house spiders to a few species that require caution. This guide will help you identify the most common spiders in our area and know when it’s time to call in the professionals.
The Harmless Houseguests
Most of the spiders you see are harmless to humans and are simply looking for shelter and food.
Cellar Spiders: Often mistaken for daddy long-legs, these spiders have long, thin legs and small bodies. They build messy, tangled webs in corners of basements, garages, and attics. They are not dangerous and are actually a great natural form of pest control, as they eat other insects and even other spiders.
Jumping Spiders: These small, fuzzy spiders are known for their quick, jerky movements and excellent eyesight. They don’t build webs to catch prey; instead, they stalk and pounce on insects. They are generally timid and their bites are rare and harmless.
Orb-Weaver Spiders: You’ll often see these spiders in your garden or on your porch, spinning beautiful, wheel-shaped webs. While they can look big and intimidating, they are not aggressive towards humans and their venom is not considered medically significant. They are essential for keeping fly and mosquito populations in check.
When to Be Cautious: Medically Significant Spiders
While most spiders are harmless, Mississippi is home to a few species that can pose a health risk. It’s important to learn how to identify them and handle them with caution.
Brown Recluse Spiders: This is one of the most feared spiders, and for good reason. It has a distinctive violin-shaped marking on its back, though this can be hard to see. Brown recluse spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and storage boxes. Their bites can cause a painful, slow-healing wound. If you suspect you’ve been bitten by a brown recluse, seek medical attention immediately.
Black Widow Spiders: The female black widow is easily identified by her shiny, black body and the iconic red hourglass marking on her abdomen. They build irregular, messy webs in dark, sheltered areas like woodpiles, sheds, and under patio furniture. Their venom is potent, and a bite can cause muscle cramps, nausea, and other severe symptoms.
What to Do When You Have a Spider Problem
If you're seeing a large number of spiders, finding them in places they shouldn't be, or suspect you have a population of black widows or brown recluse spiders, it's a sign of a bigger issue. A professional pest control service can not only remove the spiders but also address the underlying problem: the presence of other pests that spiders are feeding on.
At Holifield Pest Management, we understand that not all spiders are created equal. Our experts are trained to identify spider species, assess the level of risk, and provide a safe and effective solution. We focus on a targeted approach that gets to the root of the problem, ensuring your home is protected from dangerous pests while leaving beneficial species to do their job outdoors.
Don't live with the fear of harmful spiders. If you’re concerned about an infestation, let our team provide the peace of mind you deserve.
For expert spider control and pest management solutions, contact Holifield Pest Management today at (601) 228-5344!