In the last few weeks, many local households have begun to notice numerous spiders in and around their homes. Even worse for arachnophobes, many of the spiders are quite large. Although many spiders offer more benefits than risk, a few spiders in Oklahoma prove dangerous, including the infamous black widow spiders that many Bristowans have recently noticed in and around their homes.
In fact, of all of Oklahoma’s spiders, black widow and brown recluse spiders are the two most dangerous. While neither spider prefers to bite first, accidentally coming into contact with one or trying to remove or kill it can result in a painful and dangerous bite from the defensive arachnid.
Locals have reported finding black widows in and around doorways, folded up and inside of portable outdoor furniture, inside of and under outdoor fixtures and storage containers, and in mailboxes. Many people across the country have experienced widow bites after blindly reaching into dark mailboxes to retrieve their mail. So, why are the spiders entering homes?
Spiders often enter homes with gardens nearby because there are many bugs that feast on garden plants as opposed to grass. Planting gardens near doorways and windows can entice spiders to hang out in those areas, waiting for a feast. Spiders also seek areas that are dark and damp such as attics, cracks and crevices, areas beneath thick foliage, under siding, in crawlspaces, in and around clutter, and in mailboxes. They also enter homes when the weather outside is less hospitable than it is inside: hot, bright, or rainy. Sometimes, spiders simply enter by accident as well.
What can we do about curbing spider entry into our homes? As it turns out, several things. Begin by checking for other insects being present inside or near the exterior of our homes. Plant gardens away from windows and doorways. Seal cracks and crevices and entryways. Remove items and clutter in and under which spiders may hide such as rocks, empty pots and boxes, and tool storage containers. Set out insect and arachnid traps near walls, doors, and windows or call an exterminator to address spider infestations. Please consult professional exterminators before spraying any poisons outside to protect pollinators.
Finally, when encountering spiders, remember that most are beneficial in nature, but do exert effort in identifying spiders, securing living spaces, and in utilizing extermination products and services. Most importantly, teach children not to touch or harass spiders and other wildlife to prevent injury.