Spiders are a group of animals classified as arachnids. They are not insects, instead being more closely related to mites and ticks.
All spiders are predators, feeding mainly on insects and other small arthropods. Their activities are highly beneficial since they help control many pest species in yards and in and around homes.
Most species of spiders found in homes are attracted to water sources. Areas around water pipes, floor drains, plumbing fixtures, and air conditioners are common areas infested by spiders in a home. Most spiders found indoors hide either in cracks, in darkened areas, or in silken retreats they build.
The common spiders that are in and/or around homes in the Rocky Mountain region are: wolf spider, jumping spider, crab spider, orb weavers, funnel weavers, cobweb spiders/comb footed spiders, sac spiders, daddy long leg spiders and widow spiders.
IDENTIFICATION
Spiders are characterized by having eight legs and two distinct body regions (cephalothorax, abdomen). All spiders have eight eyes typically in 4 sets of 2. With the exception of the brown recluse.
The brown recluse has six eyes, 3 sets of 2. This venomous spider is also called the fiddleback spider because if its distinctive fiddle pattern on the cephalothorax.
The brown recluse spider is a very uncommon species in the Rocky Mountain region. It is not adapted to the region and the few confirmed specimens have all been related to recent introduction from other states. It is more of a warm temperature species then the widow spiders and reproducing populations are doubtful to occur anywhere in the region, with the possible exception of extreme southeastern Colorado.
The brown recluse spider is frequently confused with the wolf spider and funnel weavers.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL STEPS TO HELP YOU WITH SPIDERS
Depending on the spider species involved, these may include one or more of the following: Sanitation; A thorough housecleaning should be done twice a year. This should include keeping the premises free of debris such as boxes, papers, clothing, lumber piles, ect.
The key to control is the timely mechanical removal of spiders, webs, but especially the egg sacs with a vacuum, both inside and outside.
Prevention: changing the lighting to off-building locations, from mercury vapor to sodium vapor lamps, or in the case of homes, changing bulbs near the entrances to yellow bulbs, may be some help in reducing attractiveness.
Evaluation
Set Action Thresholds
Pest Prevention
