When the weather gets cold, arachnids look for a warm place to hide. Unfortunately, this place is sometimes your home. In Texas, spiders and scorpions are the most common arachnids that invade family homes. Some are capable of inflicting painful and even fatal injuries. Here are our best tips for identifying arachnids and protecting your home from unwanted guests.
Spiders
Tarantulas are intimidating, and wolf spiders are scary. However, these creatures have nothing on the infamous black widow and the deadly brown recluse. The brown recluse is known for its flesh-eating venom. Because there are several types of recluse spiders in Texas, their colors range from dark brown to an orangey tan. This makes them difficult to identify. These spiders are about the size of a quarter. They hide in dark crevices during the day and come out at night, which is when most bites occur.
Black widows are dangerous. Their colors usually include a combination of black, red and white with an hourglass shape. These spiders are relatively timid and build webs near the ground. Black widows are often found in furniture, basements, crawlspaces and utility meters. Spider bites can be deadly, so it’s important to treat them early and be aware that some people have delayed reactions.
Spiders seek sheltered, undisturbed areas, so it’s a good idea to clean and vacuum storage spaces regularly. This helps remove eggs that could otherwise hatch and become an infestation. Spiders love garages and closets. Reclusive spiders also hide in folded clothes and stored items. To keep your items safe from spiders, seal boxes or use airtight storage containers.
Scorpions
Scorpions are among the most frightening household pests in the Dallas area. These arachnids live for three to four years. They are active all year. Bark scorpions even mate in the winter. Scorpions come out at night and are often seen scaling trees and walls, which is a habit that gives them access to attics and protected spaces. You might also find scorpions living in log piles and outdoor debris.
Protecting Your Property
Caulking crevices, checking window screens and installing weather stripping are the best ways to prevent arachnids from entering your home. In cases where there’s an infestation of spiders or scorpions, a pest control specialist will be able to present the best course of action. It’s also possible to control arachnids by trimming shrubbery and removing landscape debris. If you’re battling arachnids, give ABC Home & Commercial Services in Dallas a call. We’ll be happy to investigate your pest problem and give you a free quote.