THE MISUNDERSTOOD SPIDER

When you think of a spider, does the hair on the back of your neck stand up? Does your heart beat a little Common Spiders in Ontario faster? Does panic set in?

For many, the thought of a spider, or an actual live encounter with the 8-legged arachnid can cause overwhelming fear, alarm and even phobia.

For the most part, spiders are harmless to humans. They also do not cause damage to structures or property. Their webs, which depending on the species, are used for shelter, nesting, reproduction or hunting, make a home or structure look unclean and neglected. In severe infestations, with large numbers of spider webs, you may feel like you stepped into a scene from a scary movie.

Spiders are one of natures most misunderstood pest. They are also one of the most fascinating. With over 45,000 spider species in the world (and many in Ontario), they truly come in all shapes, sizes and colours. All spiders do contain the same physical make up of eight legs, two body regions, and no wings or antennae.

Spiders are a species heavily judged on their looks and their predatory hunting nature. Most concerning is a spider bite, which is often thought to cause serious permanent damage or be fatal. While there are some spiders species that do possess toxic venom that can be harmful to humans (like the brown recluse spider and black widow spider), these spiders are not common in Ontario. These spiders are also not aggressive, and do not set out to intentionally attack or strike humans. In general, If any spider bites a human, it is because the spider felt threatened or was injured when it came in direct contact with a person.

One of the most amazing things about spiders is that they have a very positive impact on our environment and livelihood. They are mother nature's very own living natural pest control. Spiders hunt or trap the common household insects that are a nuisance to people, and some pests that cause serious harm and damage to crops that we depend on for our food supply.

While spiders are beneficial, they can become a nuisance or issue in homes, garages, barns, cottages or other structures if their numbers become large and intolerable. In these cases, assistance from an expert, licensed pest control professional may be needed.

Learn more about some of the most common spiders in Ontario. You may have seen or encountered many of these around your yard, home, garage, shed, cottage or barn.

Keep checking our Pest Library for more information about spiders, especially for expert tips on how to get rid of spiders!

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Trevor Dixon

I want to thank Sarah! She really did a amazing inspection! I had a issue with mice. Sarah cover the inside and outside taking care of holes/gaps above the front and back doors. attics and garage. And has a very caring attitude towards her clients! I have know about Environmental Pest control for many years as they looked after issues with a school board I worked for.

Margo Dixon

We just had a fall treatment done at our country property. We never hesitate to call this company to protect us from ladybugs, cluster flies and more. You can count on them for punctuality, professionalism and thoroughness. Shout out to Cody who went above and beyond today: on his own accord, he brought our garbage/recycling bins to our garage door from the road and was able to retrieve a helium balloon that had floated up to the top of our cathedral ceiling. We are seniors, so these gestures of kindness were most appreciated. Highly recommend!

Sherrie Lee Hawley

I cannot rate this company high enough. I first talked with Thomas on the phone. He was so polite and patient with this 79 year old lady animal advocate. He talked me through everything and I made my choice of the service I desired. I got an appointment the next day. Craig was right on time and he went through everything again and made sure I understood the whole procedure. I feel I got a very fair price for the work done. Do not hesitate to call Environmental Pest Control if you need help with wasps as I did!

Heather Lundberg

I recently had the bait boxes refilled to avoid having mice move into my house as the weather turns colder. Mike and Jake arrived at the appointed time. Both gentlemen were polite, friendly and very professional. When they left, I contacted Kassandra to arrange payment. She was lovely, pleasant and polite, a pleasure to speak with. I have used the services of this company for years and have always been pleased.