Spider Identification & Prevention

Over 3,500 spider species exist in the United States. These crawling predators feed on living pests and animals and are usually harmless. From the small orb-weaver spider to the poisonous brown recluse, we have thousands of different species of spiders in the Cookeville, TN area. Local spiders include:

• Black widow
• Brown recluse
• Cellar spider
• House spider
• Jumping spider
• Orb-weaver
• Wolf spider
• Zipper spider

Spiders are arachnids with two body segments, eight legs, and a lack of antennae and wings. Different kinds of spiders will vary in shape, color, and shelter preferences. It is always best to partner with a local professional to identify the spiders calling your property home. 

Most spiders are harmless and have venom only potent enough to affect insects. However, a black widow and brown recluse bite can be fatal depending on a person’s sensitivity to its venom. While there are dangerous spiders in our region, the large majority of spiders that you will run into in your yard and home are harmless. They are most concerned with finding their insect prey, not seeking out people to bite. The majority of spider bites are accidental occurrences. Bites typically happen when a spider is being squished or otherwise in harm’s way, and they must protect themselves.

Spiders have adapted to living outside, well away from people, in addition to with us. Our yards and the exterior and interior of our homes, garages, and other outbuildings provide spiders with plentiful places to build their webs and burrows. However, it is essential to note that the spider’s biggest attractant is prey. Wherever there are high populations of insects, there will be spiders around hunting them. Noticing large numbers of spiders on your property means you have an overall pest problem you need to address.

As a species, spiders are naturally shy and reclusive. They are quiet predators and like to live in dark, quiet spaces. As you walk around your yard and home, there are likely spiders all around you that you never notice. Outside, spiders hang out in tall grass, dense vegetation, trees, yard debris, woodpiles, under decks, play structures, and outdoor furniture.

Spiders inside our homes like to lurk in dark corners in areas that put them near their prey. Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and storage spaces are familiar places to run into spiders. Other common hideouts include under furniture, around light fixtures, and in areas of clutter.

We understand that no one wants to deal with seeing spiders in their home. We’ll help you find the reason spiders are coming into your home. During our inspection, we’ll look for the following:

• Spider webs – It’s essential to understand that not all spider webs look like a classic web. Some webs resemble wasps’ nests that are funnel-shaped.
• Moist areas – Spiders love to hang out in wet locations like sheds and basements. Damp areas are the perfect breeding grounds for the insects they enjoy for dinner.
• Burrows – Many spiders burrow into the ground and use crevices in your foundation as temporary nests.
• The presence of insects – Ants, lice, and flies are a spider’s favorite food source. If you have any of these insects, you should expect spiders.

After the inspection, we will perform a detailed home pest control process to remove the spider infestation. Below is a quick overview of our spider control process.

• Property inspection
• Identification of types of spiders in and around your home
• Detailed spider control plan and removal report
• Entry point sealing
• Implementation of spider control products
• Check-in with you for updates on any spider sightings

To learn more about getting rid of spiders in the Crossville, TN area from your home and keeping them away long-term, reach out today.

The best ways to protect your home from spiders include:

• Sealing any cracks or holes on the exterior of your home.
• Using essential oils to repel spiders from your home.
• Getting rid of insects around your home.
• Adopting a dog or cat that will naturally hunt for spiders.
• Bringing in pest control professionals to safely get rid of spiders.

Spiders aren’t welcome in most homes, so we’re here to guarantee your home stays spider-free. Midstate Termite & Pest Control will keep your home in Cookeville, TN, free from arachnids throughout the year. We have the skill, knowledge, and experience to tackle even the most difficult infestation. Since 1953, our locally owned and operated pest control company has provided reliable pest and spider control with treatment programs customized to each property.

Contact us for a free spider inspection today!