PREPARING FOR SPIDER SEASON

PREPARING FOR SPIDER SEASON

As summer ends and the weather gets cooler, spiders start moving from your yard to your house. Fall is also when spiders in the Pacific Northwest are looking for mates, so they are a little more brazen about coming out in the open. While temperatures are getting lower, spiders are more active inside of your house because of the motivation to find a mate then the need for a warm place to call home.

Venomous Spiders in Western Washington

Most spiders in the Pacific Northwest are harmless. There are a couple of exceptions. Black Widow Spiders are found in Eastern Washington, but according to the Department of Health, small populations also live in Western Washington. Yellow sac spiders can be found in gardens or woodpiles and may be found in ceilings and walls when the weather gets cooler. A bite from these spiders are rarely deadly, but can be painful, and could require medical attention.

Spiders in your house

During mating season in the fall, spiders are more likely to come out in the open and be more visible in your home. One of the most common spiders that can cause alarm is the giant house spider. While they look creepy, they are not aggressive and are reluctant to bite. Even if they do bite, it is not very harmful. Spiders feed on other insects in your house, so they can be beneficial. However, if you prefer not to have them roaming your house, contact a licensed professional like Environmental Pest Control. By using a licensed professional, you’ll ensure your pest solution will be handled using safe methods and chemicals to protect your kids and pets.

Preventing Spiders from coming in the house

It’s difficult to keep spiders from entering your house entirely. However, here are a few tips:

  1. Keep your house clean. Move furniture and vacuum behind furniture.
  2. Make sure your windows have effective screens.
  3. Replace worn weather strips & sweeps on doors.
  4. Check boxes when bringing in from garage or outdoors.
  5. Check firewood before bringing indoors.

For more information on treating and preventing spider infestations, contact Environmental Pest Control today.