FACTS AND INFORMATION ABOUT SPIDERS FROM ONTARIO'S LEADING PEST CONTROL COMPANY.

Spiders (Order Araneae) are ancient animals with a history going back millions of years. They are the largest order of arachnids, with more than 45,000 species worldwide. Most spider species are still awaiting identification. Spiders are abundant in Ontario.

All spiders are predators and most feed on insects, although a few large species prey on small vertebrate animals. Spiders play an important role in the environment by helping to keep insect populations in check.

Spiders are easily recognized by their 4 pairs of eight segmented legs, and 2 body areas (cephalothorax and abdomen). The cephalothorax and abdomen are separated by a visible waist or pedicel. The top of the cephalothorax is protected by a shield-like covering called the carapace. Spider do not have antennae or wings.

Most species have 8 simple eyes, though some have less and a few species have none. Often the number and arrangement of eyes are key in in identification.

Most spiders lay their eggs in silken egg sacs that are placed in the web, attached to leaves or twigs, or carried around by the spider until the eggs hatch. 

Not all spiders spin webs. Some live in burrows, which they line with silk, while others have no retreat at all. All young spiders and some adult males release long silken strands, which they use like a parachute to ride the wind to other areas. This process is called ballooning.

For the most part, spiders are harmless to humans. Few spiders bite people, and the venom of most is harmless. However, the bite of the black widow and the brown recluse can be quite dangerous.  

Learn how to get rid of spiders.

If you have a spider infestation, depending on the size, using a vacuum cleaner or broom to collect up the spiders, webs and their egg sacs may be an effective spider removal method.  Make sure you immediately dispose of the spiders, their webss and egg sacs in a sealed bag, and place in an outdoor trash bin, that is stored away from your home or business. 

For larger spider infestations, professional help may be needed for effective spider removal. In these cases, contacting a licensed pest control company with expertise in spider treatment is your best course of action.