While spiders typically look a lot scarier than they actually are, you definitely should not be rolling out the welcome mat for these venomous and occasionally dangerous arachnids. The good news is that pest control in Los Angeles, CA, is easy with help from Leaf Pest Management.
Characteristics Of A Spider
Spiders are carnivorous arachnids just like scorpions. This means that not only do they have eight legs and two body parts like all other arachnids (including ticks and mites), but they are also specifically adapted to hunt and eat live prey. Spiders feed by chemically subduing their prey and predigesting it before gobbling up its liquefied insides. This means all spiders are venomous.
All spiders also need live prey. They cannot scavenge for dead insects, and they cannot eat things like garbage and refuse. This means that the only thing that can attract large numbers of spiders into your home is an infestation of their favorite prey items, such as cockroaches, flies, moths, and other insects.
Spider Bites Can Be Dangerous
Despite the fact that all spiders are venomous, most types of spiders in California are nothing to worry about. Their venom is potent enough to kill small prey, but it is not a threat to humans. This means that, most of the time, a bite from a spider will result in little more than pain and swelling for a few hours or days, much like a bee sting.
That being said, there are a couple of exceptions to this general rule. The most dangerous California spider is the black widow. These shiny, black spiders pack a powerful neurotoxic venom that can cause all kinds of systemic symptoms. Most adult humans will survive a black widow bite, though it may make them very ill for a while, but these spiders can be a mortal threat to pets and small children, so it’s vital to keep spiders out of your home.
Another dangerous local spider found in our area is the desert recluse. Similarly to the brown recluse, the desert recluse has a hemotoxic venom that can cause necrosis of the skin. This means the skin around the site of the bite will often die and decompose. This can lead to lesions, infection, and scarring if not treated by a medical professional.
Effective Spider Prevention Tips For Your Home
The best way to get rid of spiders is to eliminate the infestations that are attracting them. This means keeping spiders’ preferred prey out of your home. While there are a few things you can do to target spiders themselves, such as dewebbing and sealing cracks and holes that they could use as entryways, the best thing you can do is repel their prey by taking measures such as:
- Keeping all indoor and outdoor garbage covered.
- Clearing clutter to reduce hiding spots.
- Cleaning frequently to eliminate crumbs and food scraps.
- Repairing moisture problems that can attract insects.
- Storing all pantry foods in airtight containers.
Following these pest best practices can make your home less attractive to the pests spiders prey on, and thus, to spiders themselves.
Quality Pest Control Makes The Best Spider Control
Unfortunately, it can be very difficult to eliminate spider infestations once you already have one. Spider populations can grow very quickly if there is a source of food to support them. This means if you have a house full of spiders and spider prey, you will likely need professional help to eliminate both problems.
That’s why you should call the experts here at Leaf Pest Management at the first sign of a spider problem. We are familiar with all of the spider species endemic to the Los Angeles area, and we can help you not only get rid of your spider infestation but the prey that is attracting it. Reach out today to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Los Angeles.
