What are spiders?

Spiders are a type of arachnid that are related to other arthropods like mites, ticks, and scorpions. Spiders help to control nuisance insect populations; they are predators that feed on other living things. These eight-legged hunters are helpful when living outside away from people, but when they choose our yards and homes to inhabit, they become unwanted pests.

Are spiders dangerous?

Depending on the species, spiders can be dangerous. All spiders have venom that they use to paralyze their prey, but only a handful have venom that is strong enough to create health problems in people. Spiders are mainly nuisance pests that invade our homes and properties. They are difficult to control, and often startle us by appearing where we least expect them to.

Why do I have a spider problem?

When it comes to spiders, all you need to know is one thing: wherever there are insects, there will be spiders. Because spiders feed on insects, properties with lots of vegetation, garden areas, compost, tall grass, or shrubs that often attract hungry insects, will also attract hungry spiders. Having a problem in your home or yard with spiders is usually a sign that you have other pest problems as well.

Where will I find spiders?

Spiders live most of their time outside in many different locations. These include our yards and our homes or outbuildings. Common spots where spiders hide include trees, dense vegetation, woodpiles, under fallen trees, behind window shutters, behind wood shingles, under roof eaves, and in doorways.

Spiders usually only move into homes and other buildings when they follow their prey inside or to find a safe place to lay their eggs. Once inside, as long as there are insects to eat, they will stay.

How do I get rid of spiders?

Get rid of spiders from your Central New York property with the help of local, experienced professionals. At Sweeney’s Pest Elimination, we have been protecting people and properties from our area’s most common pests for over 20 years.

If you are experiencing problems with spiders, our professionals will take care of the problem and put into place the services needed to stop them from returning. To learn more about our residential or commercial pest control solutions in Ithaca and eliminate spiders from your Ithaca property, contact us at Sweeney’s Pest Elimination today!

How can I prevent spiders in the future?

In addition to our professional spider control services, avoid future problems with spiders by putting into place the following prevention tips:

• Use caulk to repair cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home to get rid of entry points.
• Repair any loose door or window screens.
• Repair roof damage.
• Place screens on any vents entering your home and on chimney openings.
• Seal up spaces around wires and other utilities entering your home.
• Remove fallen trees, tree stumps, and debris from your yard.
• Keep the grass on your property cut short.
• Cut back overgrown vegetation from the outside of your home.
• Eliminate hiding spots in your home by keeping basements and closets free of clutter.
• Replace white outdoor light bulbs with yellow or LED light bulbs, which are far less attractive to insects.
• Keep outdoor lights off whenever possible.

‍

‍