Don’t Be Bugged Out! A Guide to Identifying Common Spiders in Ohio

Ohio boasts a diverse range of creepy crawlies, and spiders are definitely part of the crew! While some folks find them unsettling, spiders in Ohio are actually beneficial predators that help control insect populations. But with all those eight legs and curious shapes, how do you tell a harmless cellar spider from a potentially dangerous one? Fear not, fellow Ohioan! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to identify some of the most common spider species lurking in your Buckeye State backyard (or basement!).

Superstar Spiders in Ohio

The vast majority of Ohio spiders are shy and pose no threat to humans. In fact, they’d much rather avoid us altogether. Here are some of the most commonly encountered spider superstars:

• The Cellar Spider (Pholcus phalangioides): This long-legged wonder, also known as the daddy longlegs, is a familiar sight in basements and damp corners. Their spindly legs and small bodies make them easily recognizable. Cellar spiders are excellent pest control agents, catching gnats, mosquitos, and other small insects in their intricate webs.
  
• The Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum): These small, light brown spiders are frequent house guests. They build messy webs in corners, along walls, and behind furniture, preying on flies, gnats, and other household insects. House spiders are typically harmless, but their webs can be unsightly.
  
• The Orb Weaver (Araneus diadematus): These impressive spiders are often seen outdoors, spinning large, circular webs adorned with a distinctive zig-zag pattern. Orb weavers come in various colors, from brown and gray to yellow and orange. While their webs can be quite large, orb weavers are not aggressive towards humans and their bites are rarely medically significant.
  
• The Jumping Spider (Family Salticidae): These curious spiders don’t rely on webs to catch prey. Instead, they stalk and jump on their unsuspecting victims, using excellent eyesight and powerful legs. Jumping spiders come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns, making them surprisingly cute for the spider-averse. They pose no threat to humans and can even be considered beneficial pest controllers.
  

Ohio’s Black Beauties

While most Ohio spiders are harmless, there are two black-colored species that warrant caution:

• The Northern Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus): This infamous spider is easily identified by its shiny black body with a distinctive red hourglass marking on its underside (though some females lack the hourglass). Black widows are shy and reclusive, but their venom can be dangerous. If you suspect a black widow infestation in your home, contact a professional pest control service like Pest Asset immediately.
  
• The False Black Widow (Steatoda borealis): Often mistaken for the black widow, the false black widow is smaller and has a more rounded abdomen. Its markings can resemble an hourglass, but with additional markings or spots. While their bite can cause some discomfort, it’s far less serious than a black widow bite.
  

Beware the Brown Recluses… (Almost)

The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa), notorious for its necrotic venom that can cause serious skin lesions, is not native to Ohio. However, there have been rare instances of accidental introductions. This violin-shaped spider, with a brown body and a darker marking resembling a violin on its back, prefers warm, undisturbed areas. If you suspect a brown recluse infestation, it’s crucial to contact a professional pest control company like Pest Asset for proper identification and removal.

Red-Legged Ramblers: Not All Threats

Several spider species in Ohio sport red legs, most of them completely harmless. Here are a couple of examples:

• The Cross Spider (Araneus diadematus): As mentioned earlier, these orb-weaving spiders can have reddish markings on their legs, along with variations in brown and gray. They are beneficial predators and pose no threat to humans.
  
• The Hackled-Mesh Weaver (Dysdera crocata): These medium-sized spiders are found outdoors and sometimes venture indoors. They are recognized by their dark brown bodies with lighter brown stripes and reddish-brown legs. Hackled-mesh weavers are shy and not aggressive towards humans.
  

When to Call in the Pest Control Cavalry

While most Ohio spiders are beneficial or harmless, some situations require professional intervention. Here’s when to call Pest Asset:

• Black Widow or Brown Recluse Suspicions: If you suspect you have a black widow or brown recluse infestation, don’t attempt to handle them yourself. Contact Pest Asset immediately for safe identification and removal.
• Large Spider Infestations: Even harmless spiders can become a nuisance if their populations explode. If you’re dealing with a significant number of spiders in your home or outdoor areas, Pest Asset can develop a customized spider control plan to manage the situation effectively.
• Spider Phobia: For some people, even the sight of a harmless spider can trigger anxiety or fear. Pest Asset understands this and can provide discreet and professional spider removal services to give you peace of mind.
• Preventative Measures: If you want to prevent spider infestations before they start, Pest Asset offers preventative pest control plans that address potential spider harborage areas and deter them from entering your home in the first place.

Living Alongside Ohio’s Arachnids

Spiders are a natural part of Ohio’s ecosystem, playing a vital role in insect control. By understanding the different types of spiders and their behaviors, you can learn to coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures. Here are some tips for minimizing spider activity in your home:

• Declutter and Clean Regularly: Spiders thrive in cluttered spaces that offer hiding spots. Regularly declutter your home and remove cobwebs to make it less inviting for spiders.
• Seal Entry Points: Spiders can enter your home through cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines. Seal these entry points with caulk or weather stripping to keep them out.
• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuuming regularly helps remove spiderwebs and insects that spiders prey upon, making your home less attractive to them.

Pest Asset: Your Partner in Spider-Free Living

If you’re facing a spider infestation or simply want to prevent one, Pest Asset is here to help! Our experienced and licensed technicians can safely identify spider species, develop a customized treatment plan, and ensure your home remains spider-free. We use eco-friendly methods whenever possible and prioritize the safety of your family and pets.

Don’t let spiders take over your Ohio haven! Contact Pest Asset today for a free consultation and a spider-free future!

(440) 363-6593
pestasset.com