The Homeowner’s Guide to
Spiders in Texas
There are currently over 900 spider species in Texas, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife, making the likelihood of you finding spiders in your home incredibly high. While most of the common spider species found in homes here aren’t considered poisonous or dangerous to humans and pets, there is still a handful to look out for that can potentially cause significant harm.
If you suspect you’re dealing with a spider infestation in your home, read this guide to learn about the most common spiders in Texas and how to restore safety and peace to every corner of your property.
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Common Spiders in Texas
With hundreds of species spanning one of the largest states in the U.S., it’s near impossible to know the complete list of which spiders could be found in the Lone Star State. It can also be difficult for homeowners to identify common house spiders in Texas and how to handle removing them appropriately.
Below are some of the most commonly found spider types in Texas.
American House Spider
American house spiders have elongated bodies and eight legs, creating tangled cobwebs in the corners of attics and window frames. These brown Texas house spiders rarely bother humans and are not aggressive. In some cases, they may even play dead when they feel threatened. If handled roughly, they may bite in defense, which can be painful for a day or two. Fortunately, their venom is not poisonous to humans.
Black Widow Spider
One of the most notorious spiders in the U.S., black widow spiders are also one of the most poisonous spiders in Texas. They are black, with a bulbous body and a signature red hourglass figure on their back. They build their messy webs near ground level, typically making their homes in undisturbed outdoor structures like abandoned sheds or cellars.
Only the female black widows are dangerous to humans. Their bite feels like a pinprick and causes swelling and two faint red spots surrounded by redness at the bite site. Pain then localizes in the abdomen and back, followed by many other life-threatening symptoms. You should seek medical attention immediately if you believe a black widow has bitten you.
Brown Recluse Spider
Another venomous spider in Texas is the brown recluse spider, which hides during the day and is active at night. They prefer warm, dry spaces like closets and barns. These brown, quarter-sized spiders are sometimes also called fiddleback spiders due to the violin-like pattern on their back. Their bites are often undetected initially and cause tissue decay surrounding the bite area, so they should be treated by medical professionals immediately.
Jumping Spider
Ranging in color from black, tan, brown, or gray, jumping spiders have stout bodies and legs with pale or white markings. Their front legs are typically thick and long and covered with iridescent hairs. Unlike most other spiders on this list, they don’t spin webs but rather hunt their prey.
While jumping spiders may bite in defense, their bites are not poisonous to humans. They’re far more likely to run or jump away than attack. There are several types of jumping spiders in Texas, each with unique patterns and behaviors.Wolf Spider
Garden Spider
Garden spiders in Texas are often found in gardens, yards, and other outdoor spaces. They are known for their black and yellow bodies and distinctive zigzag web patterns and are generally harmless to humans. These spiders can actually benefit your property by controlling pest populations, such as flies and mosquitoes. Garden spiders can vary in size, with some being among the big spiders in Texas, but they are non-aggressive and rarely bite unless provoked.
What are the Biggest Spiders in Texas?
The size of spiders that live in Texas can span anywhere from 1 ¼ to 4 inches long. Here are three of the biggest:
Texas Brown Tarantula
The largest spider you’ll find in Texas is the Texas brown tarantula. They can grow four inches long and have dark brown bodies with red hairs. Texas brown tarantulas tend to stick to the ground and eat mostly ground-dwelling insects like cockroaches. Their bite is non-lethal to humans in most cases.
Huntsman Spider
With a leg span that can reach up to five inches across, Huntsman spiders have an intimidating stance and size. They also have narrow bodies and very long legs. Huntsman spiders don’t spin webs and aren’t dangerous to humans.
American Nursery Web Spider
With a leg span of up to 2.5 inches, American nursery web spiders are one of the biggest spider species in the state. They have a light brown color with dark brown bands down the center of their bodies. They only spin webs when laying their eggs and aren’t dangerous unless they feel their nest is threatened.
When is Spider Season in Texas?
While spiders are common across Texas year-round, spring is the most active season. As insects start becoming active in your yard, spiders will show up in search of food. The onset of spring is the best time to put preventative measures in place to avoid any potential spider infestations around or in your home.
How Do I Prevent Spiders from Getting into My Home?
Spiders find their way indoors through your home’s crevices, cracks, and gaps—including windows, doors, and vents. To prevent spiders, seal as many cracks and crevices as possible. If cables, wires, or electrical components are run outside, seal any openings with caulk. Keep your window screens in good condition, and ensure they create a tight seal on your window frame.
Hawx Pest Control Services
The best way to prevent spiders in the home is by hiring a professional pest control company like Hawx Pest Control. With proven methods, qualified technicians, and the best products and services available, our friendly professionals are ready to help you all year round. We use a three-fold process plus high-quality tools and products to address infestations thoroughly, leading to safe and reliable outcomes. Contact us today for your free estimate!
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