Spiders in Connecticut

Most of the spiders in our area are beneficial to the ecosystems – even our own homes. But that certainly doesn’t mean you want them in there with you. The species of spiders in Connecticut range from the small unassuming house spider to the alarmingly large wolf spider all the way to the nasty black widow spider. Some spiders can bite, but mostly they will do so to defend themselves. Of course, the most important bite you need to know about is the black widow bite. While male black widow spiders rarely bite, females may bite in defense, especially after laying eggs – just like any mom, they want to protect their babies! Symptoms of a black widow spider bite include fever, increased blood pressure, sweating, and nausea. Pain is usually almost immediate and reaches its maximum in 1-3 hours. The pain associated with a black widow spider bite may continue for one to three days and then gradually subside. Seek medical attention just in case since you could be allergic and not know it.

Wolf spiders may seem large and intimidating, but they’re truly one of the most beneficial spiders keeping many other insect species population under control – including some other spider species! Daddy long legs are completely harmless to people and pets, but they prey on several poisonous spiders including the black widow. You may not want spiders in your home, but the reason they’re there is that your home has their food source. That’s what is attracting them, so focusing on that can help.