- In the Portland area, thousands of spider species exist and thrive throughout the year
- The Hobo Spider is usually about one half to three quarter inches in length and builds it ‘funnel shaped’ webs near the ground, usually against a man-made structure or between shrubs or something stationary
- A Hobo Spider will usually stay away from humans, but bites do occur, mostly by accident, when the spider is threatened or crushed
- The bite is not fatal, like that of a Brown Recluse Spider, but the symptoms are similar, lesions and sometimes necrosis in the flesh near the site
- A thorough treatment for spiders is available, which includes brushing of spider webs, exterior treatment with insecticides, treatment of attic and crawl space, and only when necessary-interior insecticidal treatment
If you ask five people their opinion about spiders, chances are you’ll get five different answers. For me, these creepy crawlies are so true to their description. They creep me out and their presence gets me crawling under my skin. Even though I am familiar with the different species and I know which are harmful and which are not, the sight of a spider in my house gets my nerves tingling.
Hobo Spiders
In the Portland area, thousands of spider species exist and thrive throughout the year. Fortunately, we have only one species that will cause real harm to humans and pets, the Hobo Spider, or Aggressive House Spider. The Hobo Spider is usually about one half to three quarter inches in length and builds it ‘funnel shaped’ webs near the ground, usually against a man-made structure or between shrubs or something stationary. It uses this web to trip up passer-by insects, and then aggressively attacks the prey, injecting its venom and enjoying a meal. A Hobo Spider will usually stay away from humans, but bites do occur, mostly by accident, when the spider is threatened or crushed. The bite is not fatal, like that of a Brown Recluse Spider, but the symptoms are similar, lesions and sometimes necrosis in the flesh near the site. A recent study of spiders shows that there about 30 look-alikes to the Hobo Spider, and a powerful microscope is necessary to properly identify one. This means there is about a one in thirty chance that your spider is in fact a Hobo spider, but if you’re like most that distinction doesn’t make them any less creepy.
Spider Prevention Tips
Keep trees and shrubs clipped clear away from the siding and roof of your home. Use a broom or bristle brush to sweep away webbing that forms under the eaves and siding, around windows and doors, and other possible routes of entry. Also, vacuum any webs that form on the inside walls and ceilings in your home, paying close attention behind furniture. If spiders persist, it could mean the presence of a larger insect population, perhaps in the attic or crawl space.
At Exodus Pest Control, we understand the differences in opinions when it comes to spiders. In general, spiders are beneficial as they help control other insect populations. We also understand there is a big world out there for spiders to live, and they need not take up residence in your home or office. We provide customized programs to help you breathe easy using fewer chemicals and safer practices.
