When it comes to spider species in Louisiana, the Southern House Spider stands out as one of the most fascinating species. These spiders are often mistaken for the more dangerous Brown Recluse, but they are actually harmless to humans.
Their presence in homes can be alarming due to their large size and habit of spinning intricate webs in corners and dark spaces.
Curious about what makes this arachnid unique or how to manage its presence in your home? Keep reading to learn more about the Southern House Spider in Louisiana.
Key Takeaways
- Southern House Spiders, prevalent in Louisiana, exhibit physical differences between males and females to guide you in telling them apart.
- These spiders prefer dark, secluded areas like basements and attics, crafting unique, sticky cobwebs that effectively trap small insects.
- Despite their intimidating appearance, Southern House Spiders are not dangerous to humans. If they bite, they typically cause only mild skin irritation.
WHAT ARE SOUTHERN HOUSE SPIDERS?
Southern House Spiders are a prevalent species in Louisiana. They exhibit notable differences between males and females in appearance and size.
Southern House Spiders favor dark, secluded areas. Known as crevice weavers due to their habit of living in narrow spaces, their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, such as:
- Human Homes: Basements, attics, garages, and storerooms like the cellar spiders
- Natural Settings: Under tree bark, within rock crevices
- Preferred Conditions: Dark, undisturbed spaces
ARE SOUTHERN HOUSE SPIDERS DANGEROUS?
Southern House Spiders might look intimidating, but they are generally not dangerous to humans. While spider bites might occur if they feel threatened, it seldom causes severe reactions in human skin.
Due to their similar color and size, they’re often mistaken for venomous species of spiders in North America. Here’s how to set them apart:
| Spider | Venomous? | Bite Effects | Common Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern House Spiders | No | Mild irritation, if any | Louisiana, North Carolina |
| Brown Recluse Spiders | Yes | Severe skin damage | Southern and Midwestern U.S. |
| Black Widow Spiders | Yes | Muscle pain, cramps | Throughout North America |
| Brown Widow Spiders | Yes | Less severe than Black Widow | Florida, Texas |
HOW TO GET RID OF SOUTHERN HOUSE SPIDERS
Getting rid of Southern House Spiders involves different techniques. Professional pest control might be necessary for severe infestations, but simple at-home methods exist.
Consider the following steps:
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum to remove webs, spiders, and egg sacs.
- Insecticides: Apply spider-specific insecticides around entry points.
- Glue traps: Place glue traps near suspected spider paths to catch and monitor activity.
- Declutter: Reduce clutter in basements and garages to eliminate hiding places.
Preventive Measures
Preventive measures help ensure that Southern House Spiders do not return. These measures can be implemented:
- Sealing gaps: Use caulk to seal gaps around windowsills and doors.
- Lighting: Install proper lighting to deter other insects that attract spiders.
- Regular cleaning: Keep basements and garages clutter-free and clean.
- Outdoor maintenance: Trim vegetation close to the house to minimize access points.
WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL
If you spot multiple Southern House Spiders inside your home, it might be time to call a pest control expert. Even though these spiders are not dangerous, an infestation can be unsettling, and professionals can ensure complete removal.
Whether you’re in Baton Rouge or New Orleans, seeking expert help should be easy. For immediate intervention for a severe infestation, let Lajaunie’s spider control specialists tailor a solution that’s right for your home.
For more information about the areas we service, visit our location page.