As the heat of summer transitions to the cooler days of fall in Colorado Springs, you may notice an influx of spiders in and around your home. While these eight-legged creatures can be rather unsettling, they can also help maintain our local ecosystem. In this article, we’ll explore the types of spiders you might encounter in Colorado Springs during late summer and early fall, as well as some tips for coexisting peacefully with these fascinating arachnids. However, if you just can’t stand the thought of spiders in your home, we are here for your spider pest control needs. Call us at (719)331-9646 to schedule an inspection today.
Common Spider Species
Garden Orb-weaver (Araneidae): With their intricate, large circular webs, garden orb-weavers are a common sight during late summer. Their colorful appearance and zig-zag web decoration are unmistakable. These spiders are harmless to humans and are known for controlling other insect populations.
Wolf Spider (Lycosidae): These robust and agile hunters are often found prowling around gardens and yards. Wolf spiders do not spin webs to catch their prey; instead, they rely on their speed and keen eyesight. Although their presence can be intimidating, they are not venomous and rarely bite humans.
Jumping Spider (Salticidae): Jumping spiders are known for their impressive leaping abilities and large, front-facing eyes. They are generally small and harmless, often showcasing vibrant colors and patterns. These curious spiders are more likely to jump away than to bite when approached.
Widow Spiders (Latrodectus): Most people are aware of the potentially deadly black widow spider. Female black widows are one of the most recognizable of all spiders, with her red hourglass shape found on her shiny abdomen. Widows can bite, especially when threatened. Additionally, their bite can be quite dangerous as they carry nerve venom. If you suspect your child has been bitten by a black widow, they should go to the emergency room immediately. Adults should also seek medical attention if bitten.
Spiders as Beneficial Predators
While spiders can evoke fear in some, it’s important to recognize their role as beneficial predators. Colorado State University notes they help keep the population of nuisance insects in check, including mosquitoes, flies, and other pests that become more active as temperatures cool down. By controlling these pests, spiders contribute to a healthier and more balanced local ecosystem.
Minimizing Spider Encounters
For those who prefer to keep their distance from spiders, there are several steps you can take to minimize encounters around your home:
Regular Cleaning: Keeping your indoor and outdoor spaces clutter-free and clean reduces potential hiding spots for spiders and their prey.
Sealing Entry Points: Ensure windows, doors, and gaps in walls are properly sealed to prevent spiders from entering your living spaces.
Outdoor Lighting: Switch outdoor lights to yellow or sodium vapor bulbs, which are less attractive to insects. Fewer insects mean fewer potential prey for spiders.
Trim Vegetation: Maintain shrubs, trees, and vegetation around your property to minimize areas where spiders can build their webs.
As Colorado Springs transitions from summer to fall, the presence of spiders becomes more noticeable. These diverse arachnids play a vital role in maintaining the local ecosystem by controlling insect populations. Understanding the common spider species in the area and taking steps to coexist peacefully with them can help homeowners appreciate the balance of nature. If spiders become a concern, professional pest control services, such as Complete Pest Control, are available to provide guidance and solutions that prioritize both human comfort and ecological harmony.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook.
