Web Weavers of the North: Getting to Know Wisconsin’s Spiders
Are you someone who jumps at the sight of a spider – or do they fascinate you? Whether you’re a lover or a hater, it’s impossible to deny the important role that spiders play in our ecosystem.
Wisconsin, including the bustling town of Appleton, is home to a variety of spider species. From the shy to the bold, the small to the large, there is a diverse range of arachnids to be found in this northern state.
So, let’s kick off our web-weaving adventure and get to know the spiders of Wisconsin! And for those in need of Appleton spider control, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered, too. Here’s what you need to know.
Most Common Spiders of Wisconsin
Wisconsin is home to a wide variety of spiders, each with their unique characteristics and jarring behaviors. If you’re an Appleton resident curious about the spiders crawling around your home or business, there are two spider species you should keep an eye out for: the common house spider and the wolf spider.
The common house spider, also known as the American house spider, is ominously found inside houses, barns, and sheds. They thrive in dry environments, making them a common fixture in Wisconsin homes during the colder months. Common house spiders are typically about ¼”in size, with brown bodies and light spots. They weave messy webs, which they use to trap small insects for sustenance. While their bite is not venomous, their webs can collect dust and result in allergies and asthma symptoms.
The wolf spider, on the other hand, is Wisconsin’s largest spider species, with some growing up to a full inch in size! Their furry bodies range from brown and black to gray and white and are nearly always accompanied by striped legs. Wolf spiders are agile hunters and are known to prey on other spiders and even small lizards. Don’t be fooled by their size – wolf spiders are quick and not aggressive but can give a nasty bite if they feel threatened.
If you’re looking for a few fun facts to impress your friends with, black and yellow garden spiders, also called the Argiope aurantia, are found throughout Wisconsin. These impressive creatures weave large and intricate orb webs that can measure up to a foot in diameter!
Spider Habitats in Wisconsin
When it comes to spider habitats, Wisconsin offers a diverse range of environments that these leggy creatures call home. From gardens to forests and even our own homes, spiders have adapted to make themselves at home in a variety of locations.
In gardens, spiders can often be found hiding in the greenery, waiting for their next meal. They may spin their webs in between plants or even set up camp in the leaves themselves. Forest spiders, on the other hand, prefer to hide in the bark of trees or build their webs in the brooks and streams that run through the woods.
For those of us living in the city, spiders have found a way to coexist with us by making themselves comfortable inside our homes. You may find them hiding in dark corners or lurking under the furniture. In fact, some common house spider species, like the cellar spider, actually prefer living indoors where the temperature is consistent year-round.
Spider behavior varies depending on their habitat. In gardens, spiders will typically lay in wait until their prey wanders into their web. In the forest, they will actively hunt for their food, whether that be insects or other spiders. And in our homes, they may simply wait for us to bring food to them!
Certain spider species are more adapted to certain habitats than others. For example, the black and yellow garden spider is perfectly suited for gardens thanks to its bright coloration and long, stretchy webs. Meanwhile, the wolf spider, which actively hunts for its food, is perfectly adapted for the forest with its quick movements and excellent eyesight.
Top Tips for Appleton Spider Control
While most spiders in Wisconsin are completely harmless, there are some you’d rather not have inside your house. Some spiders are poisonous and may pose a danger to you and your family’s health. Not only that, but spider webs can collect dust and dirt, making your home look unkempt.
There are various spider control methods available, from natural treatments to professional pest control services. Simple sanitation measures, like keeping your home clean and clutter free, is an important first step – spiders love hiding in messy areas! Vacuum your home regularly and seal any cracks or gaps to prevent spiders from sneaking in.
If you can, store firewood and other materials away from your home’s foundation to prevent spiders from using them as a habitat, and keep your outdoor lights turned off – they attract other bugs that spiders feed on.
With the right spider control methods and a little bit of prevention, you can keep your home spider-free in Appleton, Wisconsin. And if all else fails, you can always call in a professional pest control service who knows which treatments work best for certain types of spiders.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin, the land of cheese and brats, is also home to some fascinating and important spider species. Before you grab your broom and start sweeping away these eight-legged wonders, take the time to consider whether you really need to get rid of them. Many spider species are beneficial.
And for those who might not be so helpful, you may want to give Hawx a call to help you manage your spider infestation. Our team of spider control experts can help you safely and effectively remove any kind of arachnid from your home. Join our satisfied family of customers today – and enjoy a spider-free home tomorrow!
