Peak Season
While spiders can be found throughout the year in Florida, some types are more active in warmer weather. Spiders are predatory insects and will find their way into your home to build their webs. Residents should be aware of the common spiders in Tampa during the peak season and the associated risk factors of spider bites.
Species
Risk Factors
What Is a Spider?
Spiders are predatory pests that feed on other insects. Some common biological characteristics of spiders include:
- Eight legs
- Two body parts, the cephalothorax, and an abdomen
- Brownish, grey, or black in color
The lifespan of a spider depends on the species. The common House spider can live for two or three years if it is primarily indoors. When spiders enter homes they typically hide in dark areas like closets, basements, under furniture, or in corners.
Are They Dangerous?
Most spiders are not aggressive but they may bite if they feel bothered. Understanding the risk factors of spider bites is essential for residents to protect themselves and their families from potential harm. Typically, they do not break human skin if they do bite. There are some species found in Florida like the Brown Recluse that are poisonous. Being bitten by one of these could require medical attention. It is highly important to be aware of the poisonous species among the common spiders in Tampa.
Where Are They Commonly Found?
Common spiders in Tampa are typically shy and elusive by nature. Spiders will enter into homes to get out of the very hot, cold, or wet weather. They will also enter homes to build their webs or search for prey. Like other insects, spiders also make habitats outside in shrubs or wooded areas. Spiders can be difficult to control since there are many small places they can hide in a given property.
Prevention
The best way to prevent spiders from getting in a property is to try and seal off any cracks or holes around the exterior. Keeping bushes and shrubs trimmed around your property is also a good way to control spiders.
