Picture this: you’re tidying up your home, minding your own business, when suddenly, you spot a tiny creature scurrying across the floor. It’s black and white, and you can’t help but wonder – what kind of spider is this?
Before you panic and start Googling “deadly black and white spiders,” take a deep breath. In most cases, that little intruder is probably a harmless zebra spider. Let’s talk about what that means – and whether you need to call pest control if you happen to spot a black and white spider in your home.
What is a Zebra Spider?
If you’ve spotted a small black and white spider in or around your home, there’s a good chance it’s a zebra spider (Salticus scenicus). Also known as the zebra jumper, this arachnid gets its name from its distinctive black and white striped pattern that resembles a zebra’s coat.
But unlike the four-legged mammal, zebra spiders are much smaller and aren’t nearly as intimidating as you probably think.
Zebra spiders are part of the jumping spider family, which means they have excellent eyesight and are known for their incredible jumping abilities.
Measuring about 5 to 7 millimeters in length, these spiders are quite small. Their compact size and zebra-like stripes make them easily recognizable. The males usually have more pronounced markings compared to females, but both genders sport the iconic black and white pattern.
Behavior and Habitat
One of the most fascinating aspects of zebra spiders is their behavior. Unlike web-building spiders, zebra spiders are active hunters. They use their keen vision to spot prey from a distance and then pounce on it with precision.
This unique hunting method allows them to catch insects and other small arthropods, making them beneficial to have around your home as natural pest controllers. If flies, ants, and other tiny pests drive you nuts, don’t be too quick to spray these black and white spiders with Raid. They might actually be helping you out – friend, not foe.
Zebra spiders are often found in various habitats, including gardens, walls, windowsills, and even indoors. They prefer sunny spots where they can hunt during the day. If you see one inside your home, it’s likely searching for food or a mate.
One of the main reasons you don’t need to worry about zebra spiders is their non-aggressive nature. These spiders aren’t dangerous to humans, and their bites are exceedingly rare. Even if they do bite, the venom is not harmful, and their small size means the bite is usually painless. Zebra spiders are more interested in catching their next meal than bothering you.
Other Potential Candidates
While the zebra spider is the most likely candidate for a black and white spider sighting, there are a few other possibilities.
Let’s take a closer look at two other spiders that could be mistaken for zebra spiders (and remember that there are more than 50,000 spider species on Earth – most of which are harmless).
Cellar Spider
Cellar spiders, also known as daddy longlegs, are another common spider found in homes. While they are not typically black and white, they can have striped patterns on their legs. These spiders are known for their long, thin legs and delicate bodies. They are often found in dark, damp areas such as basements, cellars, and crawl spaces.
Cellar spiders, harmless to humans, are actually beneficial because they help control other insect populations. They build messy, irregular webs and are more likely to be seen hanging upside down, waiting for prey to get caught in their web.
Grass Spider (Funnel Weaver)
Another spider that might be mistaken for a zebra spider is the grass spider, also known as the funnel weaver. These spiders are usually white with brown spots, but the brown can sometimes appear darker. Grass spiders are known for their funnel-shaped webs, which they build in grassy areas, gardens, and shrubs.
Grass spiders, like many other spiders, are not aggressive toward humans and rarely bite.
How to Coexist with Spiders
If you find any of these spiders in your home and prefer not to have them around, there are humane ways to coexist. You can gently capture the spider using a glass and a piece of paper, then release it outside.
While most spiders are harmless, if you have a severe phobia or notice an infestation, it might be time to call in the professionals.
In most cases, the black and white spider you’ve found is likely a harmless zebra spider. However, if you’re still unsure or uncomfortable with having spiders in your home, professional pest control services can provide peace of mind.
Join our family of satisfied customers and ensure your home remains spider-free with Hawx Pest Control. Our expert team is here to help you maintain a safe and comfortable living environment. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation today.
