Does your mind race every time you spot a spider in your home? Many people wonder, What kind of spider was that? And is it dangerous? The good news is that most spiders in Washington and Idaho are harmless to humans.
To set your mind at ease, let’s take a closer look at the most common house spiders in our region.
Common House Spiders in Washington and Idaho:
- Common house spider: A small, brownish spider that builds messy, tangled webs, often in corners. Not aggressive; beneficial for controlling other insect pests indoors.
- Hobo spider: A medium-sized brown spider with a herringbone pattern on its abdomen. It was previously thought hobo spiders were more venomous than they are. They are fairly harmless, but even so, avoid handling them.
- Giant house spider: Large, up to 4’ with legs extended with dark brown or black markings. They are non-aggressive and likely to run away from you, but because of their size, people are often afraid of them.
- Wolf spider: Medium to large size, dark brown with lighter stripes or markings. Wolf spiders actively hunt for prey on floors and walls. They can be quite fast.
- Cellar spider: Also known as “daddy longlegs,” they are small-bodied with extremely long, thin legs. Harmless to humans. Their webs can trap other spiders, making them beneficial in homes.
- Black widow: Glossy black with a distinctive red hourglass marking. Prefers dark, undisturbed areas such as sheds, garages, or woodpiles. Venomous, but bites are rare and typically occur only when disturbed. Bites are painful and you should seek medical attention if bitten.
- Orb-weaver spiders: Beneficial for outdoor pest control. Rarely enter homes. Vary widely in size and color, often with bright patterns or bulbous abdomens. They are known for spinning large, intricate webs outdoors near porches, gardens, or windows.
- Jumping spiders: Small, compact spiders with large front eyes and often black with white spots. Found on walls, windowsills, or ceilings. Non-aggressive and curious.
Are There Any Dangerous Spiders in Washington and Idaho?
For those worried about encountering a dangerous spider, take a deep breath. The only spider in this region capable of delivering a medically significant bite is the black widow. Known for its shiny black body and distinctive red hourglass marking, its unique appearance makes it hard to miss.
Spiders mostly only want to 1) feed themselves and 2) defend themselves. They are unlikely to bite humans unless they feel threatened.
The Brown Recluse Myth:
Despite rumors, the Pacific Northwest is not home to brown recluse spiders. Many harmless brown spiders are often mistaken for them, but the actual brown recluse doesn’t live in this area.
“What’s That Brown Spider in My House?” – Here’s What It Probably Is
If you’ve found a brown spider in your house, your mind might immediately leap to the worst-case scenario: “It’s a brown recluse!” But, as we mentioned—brown recluse spiders are not native to Washington or Idaho. Instead, the brown spider you’re seeing is likely one of these common, harmless species:
- Hobo spider
- Giant house spider
- Wolf spider
If you’re dealing with spiders in your home, what should you do? Check out our article >> “How to Get Rid of Spiders in Your Home”
Call Your Local Spider Control Experts in Washington and Idaho
Spiders may be harmless, but that doesn’t mean you want them taking up residence in your home. Whether it’s a few cobwebs in the corners or an infestation that’s left you feeling uneasy, dealing with spiders is ultimately a matter of comfort.
With over 30 years of experience serving [City] and the surrounding area, Eden Advanced Pest Technologies is your trusted partner for spider control. Our professional pest control services are designed to keep your home free of unwanted arachnids so you can enjoy peace of mind.
Ready to take control? Call us today, and let’s make your home a spider-free zone.
