• In Washington, thousands of spider species exist and thrive throughout the year

• The Hobo Spider is usually about one half to three quarter inches in  length and builds it ‘funnel shaped’ webs near the ground, usually  against a man-made structure or between shrubs or something stationary

• A Hobo Spider will usually stay away from humans, but bites do  occur, mostly by accident, when the spider is threatened or crushed

• The bite is not fatal, like that of a Brown Recluse Spider, but the  symptoms are similar, lesions and sometimes necrosis in the flesh near  the site

• A thorough treatment for spiders is available, which includes  brushing of spider webs, exterior treatment with insecticides, treatment  of attic and crawl space, and only when necessary-interior insecticidal  treatment

 These creepy crawlies are so true to their description. They creep me out and their  presence gets me crawling under my skin. Even though I am familiar with  the different species and I know which are harmful and which are not,  the sight of a spider in my house gets my nerves tingling.

In Washington, thousands of spider species exist and thrive throughout the year. Fortunately, we have only one species that will  cause real harm to humans and pets, the Hobo Spider, or Aggressive House Spider. The Hobo Spider is usually about one half to three quarter inches in length and builds it ‘funnel shaped’ webs near the ground, usually against a man-made structure or between shrubs or something stationary.  It uses this web to trip up passer-by insects, and then aggressively attacks the prey, injecting its venom and enjoying a meal.

 A Hobo Spider will usually stay away from humans, but bites do occur, mostly by  accident, when the spider is threatened or crushed. The bite is not  fatal, like that of a Brown Recluse Spider, but the symptoms are similar, lesions and sometimes necrosis in the flesh near the site.

 A recent study of spiders shows that there about 30 look-alikes to the  Hobo Spider, and a powerful microscope is necessary to properly identify  one. This means there is about a one in thirty chance that your spider is in fact a Hobo spider, but if you’re like most that distinction doesn’t make them any less creepy.

Keep trees and shrubs clipped clear away from the siding and roof of your home. Use a broom or bristle brush to sweep away webbing that forms under the eaves and siding, around windows and doors, and other possible routes of entry. Also, vacuum any webs that form on the inside  walls and ceilings in your home, paying close attention behind  furniture. If spiders persist, it could mean the presence of a larger insect population, perhaps in the attic or crawl space.

At Blue Pest Control, we understand the differences in opinions when it comes to spiders. In general, spiders are beneficial as they help control other insect populations.

 We also understand there is a big world out there for spiders to live, and they need not take up residence in your home or office. We provide customized programs to help you breathe easy using fewer chemicals.