Spiders play a critical role in controlling insect populations and maintaining ecological balance. While they are beneficial outdoors, spiders can become a concern when they enter homes. Learn how to safely manage spiders while protecting your home and family.
Why Spiders Are Important in the Environment
Spiders are nature’s pest control champions.
- Control Insect Populations: Spiders help reduce mosquitoes, midges, flies, and other pests.
- Food Source for Birds: Many native bird species rely on spiders as a primary food source.
- Impact of Killing Spiders: Eliminating too many spiders can lead to insect population explosions and negatively impact native birdlife.
Spiders outdoors should generally be left alone to continue their role in controlling pests.
Why Do Spiders Enter Homes?
Spiders may move indoors in search of food, shelter, or ideal conditions.
- Attracted by Insects: Spiders follow their prey, like mosquitoes and flies, into homes.
- New Arrivals Through Ballooning: Young spiders use “ballooning” to travel on silk strands carried by the wind, which often brings them into homes.
It’s impossible to eliminate spiders permanently from an area since new ones readily move into vacant spaces.
How to Reduce Spiders Around Your Home
You can take preventative measures to discourage spiders from entering your home:
Reduce Entry Points
- Prune Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from the house.
- Seal Openings: Fit fly screens on windows and wall vents, and ensure doors have weather seals.
Minimize Insect Populations
- Remove Water Sources: Clear containers of standing water to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
- Use Sensor Lighting: External lights attract insects (and spiders). Put them on motion sensors rather than leaving them on all night.
Clear Outdoor Spaces
- Maintain a Clear Area: Reduce burrowing spider habitats by keeping the perimeter around your home free of debris.
These steps won’t eliminate spiders entirely but will significantly reduce their numbers indoors.
Safety Tips for Managing Spiders
While most Australian spiders are harmless, some venomous species require extra caution.
Venomous Australian Spiders
Only four Australian spider species are considered dangerous to humans:
- Sydney Funnel Web Spider
- Redback Spider
- Mouse Spider
- White Tail Spider
If bitten by any of these spiders, seek immediate medical attention and, if possible, take the spider with you for identification.
How to Reduce the Risk of Spider Bites
- Wear Shoes Outdoors: Always wear shoes when walking in the yard, especially at night.
- Use Protective Gear for Gardening: Wear gloves, long sleeves, and trousers when gardening.
- Inspect Outdoor Areas: Check BBQs, outdoor furniture, and children’s play equipment for Redback spiders.
- Inspect Clothing and Shoes: Always check gardening gloves and shoes before putting them on.
Teach Children Spider Safety
Educate children to “look but don’t touch” when encountering spiders.
What to Do If You’re Bitten by a Spider
If bitten by a spider, follow these steps to reduce risks:
- Identify the Spider: If possible, safely capture or photograph the spider for identification.
- Seek Medical Attention: For bites from dangerous species (e.g., Funnel Web, Redback), call emergency services or visit a doctor immediately.
- Monitor Symptoms: Watch for swelling, pain, or systemic symptoms (e.g., nausea, difficulty breathing).
Prompt action can reduce complications and help doctors administer the right treatment.
FAQs About Spiders in Homes
Are All Spiders Dangerous?
No, most spiders in Australia are harmless and beneficial. Only four species have venom that is dangerous to humans, and bites from them are rare.
How Can I Keep Spiders Out of My House?
Seal windows, doors, and vents. Minimize insects by reducing outdoor lighting and clearing standing water. Prune vegetation and keep outdoor spaces tidy.
Should I Kill Spiders in My House?
Spiders indoors can often be caught and released outdoors. Killing spiders disrupts their ecological role and could lead to increased pest insects.
Why Are Spiders Attracted to My Home?
Spiders are drawn to insects, moisture, and shelter. Bright outdoor lights and cluttered outdoor areas can also attract spiders.
