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Writer's pictureMarcus G

Identifying those itsy bitsy spiders



Palm Coast Pest Control Technician

Everyone has their phobia. While for some, it is snake phobia; for others, it is the fear of heights. Some are afraid of spiders. Even if you are not scared of these creatures, you will feel uncomfortable at their sight. It makes it worst when you sight them inside your home.

One of the downsides of living in a tropical zone like Florida is that bugs find it conducive. However, not all spiders you see here are quite dangerous.

Not all spider species exist in large numbers in Florida. However, a more significant number of spider species make Florida their abode.

Is it easy to spot the species? For the dangerous spider species, e.g., Black Widow, you can quickly identify them. A bite from this spider specie will require that you get immediate medical attention.

You might not easily spot them out for other spider species unless you know exactly what you are looking for.


How do you identify spider species then?

There have to be distinct features to look out for. Let’s take the Brown Recluse for instance. Just like the Black Widow, Brown Recluse is dangerous and can cause necrosis of tissues when it bites someone. How are they identified?

According to most articles, Brown Recluse has an inconspicuous marking on the back, which is ‘violin-shaped’. It also has six eyes instead of the typical eight. While these facts might be correct, who would want to get too close to these spiders to count the number of micro-eyeballs they possess?

Another characteristic cited is that they can be found in isolated and quiet corners like sheds, garages, woodpiles, and behind picture frames and dressers. But then, the Brown Recluse isn’t even the only specie that has these characteristics or fits into this description; the southern house and domestic spiders do too.

So what is the best thing to do? The best step to take in this case would be to contact a professional pest control expert if you come across a spider you think is dangerous. It might be a Brown Recluse, after all.


What of the harmless species?

The most harmless spider species in Florida is the Jumping Spider. They are of different sizes and colors, but one of the unique characteristics is their tendency to jump rather than build a web. Interestingly, these are good at eliminating other pests from home.

There is also the pale-colored Yellow Sac spider, which is also easy to identify. Its bite is painful. However, it doesn’t cause fatal damage like the Brown Recluse and Black Widow. It is usually yellow, with the tip of their legs dark in color. You will usually find them around corners of the ceilings and wall edges.

If you suspect pests in your home, it is always recommended to call a pest control company to assist with professional treatment.


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