WOLF SPIDER CONTROL BENSALEM PA
Many people fear finding wolf spiders in their Bensalem homes and offices, but the appearance of this arachnid is more threatening than its personality. In fact, there are a number of spiders that closely resemble the wolf spider in that they are large, dark and covered in dense hair. However, it is usually the wolf spider that has the most fearsome reputation.
This may be attributed to its name. While some people think that wolf spiders get their name from their heavy fur, this is not the case. Long ago, a scientist theorized that this species of spider hunted in packs much like wolves do. He named the spider accordingly, but it turned out that his theory was wrong. Although wolf spiders are adept hunters, they hunt alone rather than in packs.
This may not bring much comfort to people who have an extreme dislike for seeing these large spiders inside their homes. Asking an exterminator to address the issue is the best way to ensure a guaranteed and swift resolution. This is because control of any spider species is more complex than it may appear. Thanks to the multi-pronged approach of integrated pest management, it is possible to reduce the spider's food supply, thus forcing him to look elsewhere for a meal.
WHAT DO WOLF SPIDERS LOOK LIKE?
Size: Up to 1.5 inches in length
Color: Brown, grey, black, and sometimes orange. Some are striped,spotted, or monochromatic.
Characteristics: Wolf spiders are known for their large size and hair legs. Because of this, they are often confused for brown recluses or tarantulas.
WHERE DO WOLF SPIDERS LIVE?
Pick up a rock or venture into a brushy area, and wolf spiders are likely to be discovered. This species is well-distributed across North America, which makes encounters with people relatively frequent.
Woodpiles and yard debris piles provide ideal hiding spots, and wolf spiders may be found in dark, dusty, cluttered structures like garages, sheds, attics, basements and crawl spaces. Wolf spiders may reveal themselves in rooms of the home, including bedrooms and elsewhere, especially if these rooms have certain areas that are rarely disturbed. In fact, any cluttered area is looked upon as desirable habitat by wolf spiders.
WHAT DO WOLF SPIDERS EAT?
The species are not picky eaters. Practically all insects and invertebrates are on the menu, even when they are far larger than the hunter. Large female wolf spiders have been observed eating amphibians and reptiles.
Unlike other spiders, wolf spiders do not build a web in which to catch a meal. Instead, they are active hunters, but their methods vary according to species. Some will trek across floors or the ground, looking for likely prey. When they spot an insect, they rapidly pounce and bite the prey to immobilize it. Other subspecies will construct a tunnel in which they hide. When an insect walks by, they jump out and grab it.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY WOLF SPIDERS
Although wolf spiders are unlikely to be responsible for any property damage, the insects upon which they feed may be a different story. Termites, carpenter ants and other common pests are all potential prey items for wolf spiders. If these pests are present in the home, then they may cause significant destruction while also feeding the wolf spider population.
ARE WOLF SPIDERS AGGRESSIVE?
Unexpectedly shy and retiring, wolf spiders do not go out of their way to bite or even frighten people. They prefer to avoid confrontations, which is why they are inclined to lurk in dark, cluttered spaces. Nonetheless, their size and appearance do make them seem threatening to people, and many families are uneasy when they know a wolf spider infestation is underway.
DO WOLF SPIDERS CARRY DISEASE?
Not considered poisonous, the wolf spider's bite nonetheless does transmit a mild toxin. Slight pain, itchiness and swelling are common reactions after a bite, but most people tolerate these well and heal within a couple of days.
Some individuals are allergic to the spider's venom, which may cause them to experience more severe reactions. An allergic reaction may be characterized by fever, difficulty breathing, dizziness, cramping, headache and cramps around the area where the bite occurred. Seeking medical advice is wise, and antibiotics and antihistamines usually are sufficient to bring the condition under control.
HOW TO DETECT WOLF SPIDERS
To help prevent wolf spider issues the following steps should be taken:
• Visual sightings of a spider that is clearly carrying a brood of young on her abdomen
• Baby spiders seen "ballooning" on silken threads anywhere in the house or the yard
• Unusually large, hairy spiders are frequently encountered in living spaces
HOW TO PREVENT WOLF SPIDERS
Signs of a wolf spider presence include:
• Keep bedrooms and living rooms clutter-free
• Clean up storage areas
• Hire a pest management company to eliminate insects and invertebrates
• Dust, vacuum and mop all rooms on a regular basis
• Deter insects by storing food in containers that cannot be infested
• Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible
• Use good-quality screens on doors and windows
HOW TO TREAT FOR SPIDERS
Spider treatment involves the detection and elimination of all webs. If this is not done, the spiders are likely to re-infest the structure. Generally, it is not possible to completely eliminate spiders with do-it-yourself products. As such, successful spider eradication should be left for a pest control professional who has the tools and experience to get the job done safely and effectively.
At Newtown Termite & Pest Control, Inc., we don't take your spider problems lightly. That's why we use a multifaceted process including the treatment of wall voids, attics, and cracks and crevices throughout the premise with gels, dusts, and other specialized products.
Schedule a FREE inspection today.
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