Wolf spiders are incredible arachnids. While they don't spin webs, they have keen hunting skills and actively hunt on the ground. This species has excellent eyesight and can live everywhere, from forests to deserts. Still, while they are generally harmless, few of us want to see them indoors.
This blog about wolf spider control in Plano, TX, will examine a few facts about these arachnids, including whether they jump and what you expect from their bites. The All-Safe Pest & Termite experts will also explain what attracts them and how to keep them out year-round.
Do Wolf Spiders Jump?
Wolf spiders are an athletic type of arachnid. They are not just crawlers. They can jump, too! Rather than walk toward their prey, they'll use their strong hind legs to jump and pounce on it. It is relatively unusual in the world of spiders. Thankfully, while they are formidable predators of insects, they are fairly innocuous to us, making wolf spider infestations a nuisance rather than a serious threat.
Wolf Spider Bites Are Painful But Rare
Wolf spiders have a menacing appearance but are generally harmless to us. They have fangs and venom, which they use to subdue their prey. Still, their primary defense mechanism is to retreat, making wolf spider bites infrequent. If they do happen, they rarely cause severe reactions. You might get anything from redness and swelling to mild discomfort for a day or two. Severe symptoms are rare.
Still, while they are not as dangerous as more venomous Texas spiders like the black widow, they can indicate underlying insect infestations. They can also cause anxiety if they multiply uncontrollably. Read on to learn what might attract wolf spiders to your house.
What Attracts Wolf Spiders In The House?
Wolf spiders can find their way into your house and will do so for many reasons. First, warmth is a significant attraction. These arachnids will seek cozy hideouts during the cooler months, especially if they can also find convenient food sources.
Abundant insect populations in and around your home are magnets for wolf spiders. If your property is well-lit, you might be inadvertently attracting insects. And where there are insects, wolf spiders often follow. Eliminating existing bug problems is paramount to minimizing the presence of many types of spiders in your home.
Ensuring your windows and doors are in good condition and well-sealed will help to reduce entry points. We also recommend addressing cracks in the foundation and decluttering to eliminate hiding spots. These are only some steps you can take to keep these unwanted guests out.
Wolf Spider Prevention: Steps To Keep Them Out
The best way to get rid of spiders for good, including wolf spiders, is to create an inhospitable environment for them. On your own or with a professional, thoroughly inspect your home from the foundation to the attic. If you spot vulnerabilities, like cracks or damage, seal them using appropriate materials.
It is also vital to keep your home clean. While few people enjoy keeping up with daily chores, vacuuming and dusting can make a significant difference in keeping pests at bay. Remember to spend time in low-traffic rooms like your basement and storage areas.
Using yellow-toned outdoor lights and motion sensor lighting can minimize the risk of insects congregating on your property, while trimming plants outside reduces hiding spots for insects and spiders.
Finally, consider working with a professional if these strategies aren't enough. The All-Safe Pest & Termite experts can help create a pest-free environment where you can feel safe and comfortable.
Call All-Safe Pest & Termite to schedule an initial inspection and learn how investing in spider control near you can make all the difference. Let's get started.