House Spiders

Achaearanea tepidariorum

Description

The common house spider is usually the spider most often encountered indoors. It is a nuisance pest, probably more because of its webs than the spider itself. The house spider is found worldwide and is common throughout the United States and Canada.

Habits

The house spider randomly selects its web locations and creates a tangled web. If a web does not yield prey it is abandoned, another site is selected, and a new web is built.

Threats

Common house spiders are nuisance pests, but they pose no threats to humans.

Color : Yellowish brown, abdomen dirty white with several dark stripes meeting at angle

Legs : 8

Shape : Elongated abdomen

Size : 3/16 – 5/16“ (female) 1/8 – 3/16” (male)

Antennae : No

Region : Found throughout U.S.

Habitat

House spiders have a difficult time surviving in modern homes due to low humidity and fewer insects for food. They are more likely to prosper inside structures like garages, sheds, barns and warehouses. Outside, these domestic spiders are often around windows and under eaves, especially near light sources that attract prey.

Prevention

To prevent common house spiders from entering the home, seal cracks and use screens on windows and doors. Use a vacuum to remove adults, egg sacs and webs. If a broom is used, adult house spiders can usually escape.