Spiders, the unsung heroes of your backyard, play a crucial role in controlling insect populations. However, not all are harmless. Understanding which ones are dangerous and how to minimize encounters will help keep your family safe. Here are some tips for coexisting with spiders and identifying common backyard species.
Most Common Spiders You'll Find in a Backyard in California
It's important to take precautions to minimize the chance of getting bitten or dealing with infestations. Learn about the kinds of spiders you might come across and which ones are dangerous so you feel more in control and confident about dealing with spiders in your backyard.
Cellar Spider (Pholcidae)
You probably know them best as daddy-long-legs, with small oval bodies and long, thin legs.
Fun fact: Daddy-long-legs are not actually spiders, but they are often mistaken for them. They are classified as large craneflies and harmless creatures that feed on small insects, mites, and decaying organic matter.
Jumping Spider (Salticidae)
These petite and nimble spiders, with their fuzzy black bodies and colorful markings, are harmless and do not threaten humans.
However, their remarkable leaping prowess, with a potential six-foot jump, can catch you off guard!
Orb Weaver Spider (Araneidae)
These spiders are known for their intricate, circular webs. They are generally harmless to humans and play a vital role in controlling insect populations.
Their beautifully designed webs serve as effective traps for flying insects, helping to maintain the natural balance of ecosystems.
Wolf Spider (Lycosidae)
Even though wolf spiders may look a bit scary because of their size, they are actually harmless and would rather stay away from humans.
Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus spp.)
Beware of black widow spiders, identified by their shiny black body and red hourglass shape on the underside.
They are venomous and can be extremely dangerous, as their neurotoxic venom can cause severe reactions.
Brown Widow Spider (Latrodectus geometricus)
Brown widow spiders are easily distinguished by their light brown bodies and orange or yellow belly markings. While often mistaken for the more venomous black widows, they are less dangerous.
Be cautious as their bites still can hurt. Keep your yard tidy to deter these spiders that prefer cozy, undisturbed spots.
Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles spp.)
Brown recluse spiders are also arachnids to be weary of, as their venom can cause necrotic lesions and systemic symptoms in some cases.
They are light to dark brown with a characteristic violin-shaped marking on their back.
How to Remove Cobwebs and Keep Your Family Safe
Now that you know which spiders are poisonous and harmless and how to identify them, here are a few effective tips on keeping them at bay. These measures, when followed diligently, can significantly reduce the risk of spider encounters in your yard.
Declutter Outdoor Spaces
Spiders are drawn to undisturbed areas, such as piles of leaves, wood, and outdoor storage areas. Regularly cleaning up yard debris can eliminate places where spiders thrive. Keep firewood stacked away from your house and remove any unused items from your yard, such as old furniture or toys, that may create hiding spots.
Seal Entry Points
Spiders often enter homes through cracks, gaps, or poorly sealed windows and doors. Inspect your home's exterior for potential entry points and seal them with caulk. Installing weatherstripping around doors and windows also reduces their access inside.
Use Natural Spider Repellents
There's no need to depend on poisons! Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus can deter spiders. Spraying these oils with water in potential hiding spots or entryways can keep spiders away from your home without harsh chemicals.
Regular Outdoor Cleaning and Maintenance
Partnering with an outdoor cleaning service for regular pest control can help manage spider populations and prevent them from taking up residence in your yard. One of Sparkleyard's areas of expertise entails exterior cobweb removal, including egg sacs and other debris.
Wear Protective Clothing
If you're working in areas where spiders are likely to hide (gardening, moving woodpiles, etc.), wear long sleeves, gloves, and closed toe shoes. Doing this will decrease the risk of unexpected bites.
Hire Sparkleyard to Keep Your Yard Safer and Cleaner!
While spiders can help control your yard's ecosystem, ensuring it is safe is essential, especially for children and pets. You can minimize risks by knowing the most common species in your area, taking preventive measures, and partnering with outdoor cleaning services like Sparkleyard so that you can relax and enjoy your yard!
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