Virginia, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from mountains to coast, plays host to a variety of spiders, many of which find their way into our homes. While most are harmless, understanding which spiders are common in Virginia homes can help alleviate anxieties and encourage peaceful coexistence. This guide explores the most frequently encountered house spiders in the Commonwealth, detailing their identification, behavior, and any potential concerns.
What are some common house spiders in Virginia?
This is a frequently asked question, and the answer depends on location within the state and the type of habitat (urban, suburban, rural). However, several species consistently appear as common household spiders in Virginia. These include:
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American House Spider ( Parasteatoda tepidariorum ): This is arguably the most common house spider in Virginia. They are small to medium-sized, with a light brown to grayish body and a characteristic messy web. These webs are often found in corners, behind furniture, and in dark, undisturbed areas. They are generally harmless to humans.
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Barn Orb Weaver (Araneus cavaticus): While their name suggests barns, these spiders are also frequent visitors to homes. They are larger than American House Spiders, with a more pronounced abdomen and a distinct, circular web. These webs are often more organized and noticeable than those of the American House Spider. Like their counterparts, they are not considered dangerous to humans.
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Cellar Spiders (Pholcidae family): These long-legged spiders are often found in dark, damp areas like basements and cellars – hence the name. They have very thin legs and small bodies. While they are harmless, many people find their appearance unsettling.
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Jumping Spiders (Salticidae family): These spiders are relatively easy to identify thanks to their excellent jumping abilities and large, forward-facing eyes. They are small to medium-sized and are often found on walls and windows, hunting actively rather than relying on webs. They are harmless to humans.
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Wolf Spiders (Lycosidae family): While less common indoors than the others on this list, wolf spiders can sometimes make their way into homes. These are larger spiders, often dark-colored, with excellent hunting skills. They do not build webs but instead actively hunt their prey. They are generally not aggressive but can bite if threatened, though their bite is typically not medically significant for humans.
What is the most common spider in Virginia houses?
The American House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum) is generally considered the most common house spider found in Virginia homes. Their adaptability to human environments, coupled with their prolific reproduction, makes them a frequent resident in our living spaces.
Are there poisonous spiders in Virginia?
While most spiders in Virginia are harmless, it's crucial to be aware of the presence of black widow spiders (Latrodectus mactans) and brown recluse spiders (Loxosceles reclusa). However, these spiders are less common in homes than the species listed above. Black widows are identifiable by their shiny black bodies and red hourglass marking on their abdomen. Brown recluses are recognized by their fiddle-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (the body section containing the head and legs). Both species possess venomous bites that can cause significant pain and potentially require medical attention. It's advisable to exercise caution and avoid handling any spider that you cannot confidently identify.
How do I get rid of spiders in my house?
While completely eradicating spiders is nearly impossible, several strategies can help minimize their presence:
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Cleanliness: Regularly clean and vacuum your home, paying particular attention to corners, crevices, and areas under furniture. This removes their food sources (insects) and reduces attractive habitats.
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Seal entry points: Inspect your home for cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and foundations, and seal them to prevent spiders from entering.
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Reduce insect populations: Spiders feed on other insects. Controlling the insect population in your home will, in turn, reduce the spider population.
What kind of spider has long legs and a small body?
Cellar spiders (Pholcidae family) are characterized by their long, thin legs and small bodies. They are frequently found in dark, humid areas within homes.
This guide provides a starting point for identifying common house spiders in Virginia. Remember that accurate identification is essential before attempting any control measures. If you encounter a spider you are unsure of, it's best to contact a pest control professional or local entomologist for assistance. Remember, most house spiders are harmless and play a vital role in controlling insect populations within your home. Peaceful coexistence is often the best approach.
