Spiders
Spiders are common arachnids found in homes, businesses, and outdoor areas throughout Tennessee. While they play an important role in controlling insect populations, their presence indoors can be unsettling for many people. Some spider species are harmless, but others—such as the black widow and brown recluse—pose health risks due to their venomous bites. Spiders often seek shelter inside buildings, especially during cooler months, leading to unwanted infestations.
Why they’re a problem
- Web buildup and clutter: Spiders build webs to catch prey, and these webs can quickly accumulate in corners, ceilings, basements, attics, and garages. Over time, webs gather dust and debris, making spaces look untidy and neglected.
- Fear and anxiety: Many people experience arachnophobia, or fear of spiders. Even harmless spiders can cause discomfort and stress, affecting daily life at home or work.
- Health risks: Most spiders are not dangerous, but bites from venomous species like the black widow or brown recluse require medical attention. Their bites can cause severe pain and, in rare cases, serious health complications.
- Rapid reproduction: Female spiders lay hundreds of eggs inside silken sacs, usually hidden in dark or undisturbed areas. This can lead to sudden population spikes if spider control measures are not taken.
- Difficult to control: Spiders can enter buildings through tiny cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls. They thrive in quiet, undisturbed places, making them challenging to detect and remove without professional assistance.
Signs you may have spiders
- Visible webs: Webs found in corners, on ceilings, windows, basements, attics, or garages are a clear indication of spider activity.
- Spiders seen indoors: Spotting spiders crawling on floors, walls, or hiding behind furniture suggests infestation.
- Egg sacs: Small, white or beige silk sacs containing spider eggs are often found near webs or in protected spots.
- Dead insects in webs: Trapped insects indicate active hunting by spiders.
- Spider droppings: Tiny dark spots near webs or corners are spider excrement.
- Increased insect activity: More insects indoors attract spiders searching for food.
Professional spider control typically includes web removal, sealing entry points, reducing insect prey, and targeted treatments.
Contact Professional Pest Management to keep spiders under control and protect your home or business — call (931) 680-7249 today.
