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Wolf Spiders In Pennsylvania: Identification And Control
9/21/13
Found in gardens, yards, inside homes and outbuildings, there are many types of spiders in Pennsylvania (some venomous) including the wolf spider. Aptly named, this particular arachnid does not waste time constructing webs to catch insects but rather hunts it’s prey and attacks. Though not a dangerous spider, the wolf spider is a common nuisance pest homeowners in Pennsylvania contend with.
Large in size (growing up to 1 -1 ½ inches in length), wolf spiders are quite hairy spider and are generally a grayish brown in color. Because wolf spiders actually hunt their prey they have excellent eyesight; they have 8 eyes that are arranged in 3 rows. Wolf spiders will bite if they feel threatened, but their bite is harmless and more often than not they will retreat inside of attacking a person. As previously mentioned, this spider falls into the nuisance pest category and can really be quite an annoyance. And, once inside, it can be hard to get rid of an infestation. Because they are reclusive in nature, the best way to handle a spider invasion is to contact your local pest control provider for assistance.
Wolf spiders along with other fall pests like stink bugs, lady bugs and box elder bugs will soon be starting to enter homes looking for shelter, food and water so that they can survive the winter. Having other fall pests in your home will cause spiders to be attracted to it since there is an easy and plentiful food source for them. Things that you can do around your home to prevent spiders and other fall pests from entering include sealing cracks and crevices found in your home’s foundation, caulking gaps found around windows and doors, and trimming back trees and bushes from the exterior of your home.
Though the focus is on wolf spiders, you must also consider dangerous spiders in Pennsylvania. Like the wolf spider, brown recluse spiders and black widows also tend to avoid crowds in favor of their own company. Unlike the wolf spider, these two are venomous spiders and bites can prove life threatening. If you are seeing activity in your home, you should contact a professional for accurate identification and treatment.
Spider control is often part of a regular pest control program although there may be a different treatment required for brown recluse. Year round pest control services are a great way to protect you family and home from unwanted pests including wolf spiders, insects and rodents. A home pest control program is designed to eliminate existing pest activity and then works to prevent future pest problems. Typically it consists of routine treatment on the outside of the home along with interior treatment if needed.
If you are dealing with a spider problem in your home, Moyer Indoor | Outdoor offers PA pest control for spiders and other fall pests and can help you protect your home and family from insects and rodents all year long.