How do I control a Spider problem?

There are over 30,000 species of spiders in the world, with about 3,000 of these in the United States. New Mexico has approximately a third of these, with close to 1,000 species. Of all these species in New Mexico, only a very few interact with people.

The species normally found in or around the home can be divided into three groups: common, infrequent and occasional. The common species are those that have demonstrated an ability to adapt to indoor conditions or to the habitats around a structure. Spiders in this group include the house spiders, sac spiders, pholcids, and jumping spiders. Spiders that may be infrequently found in homes include the black widow, the brown widow, and a spider relative, the daddy-long-legs. The last group, the occasional invaders, includes wolf spiders, grass spiders, ground spiders, crab spiders, and the orb-weavers that construct their webs on or near buildings.

Most spiders need no control, but if you refuse to live with them, they can be removed and placed outdoors. Simply place a jar over the spider and slide a thick piece of paper under the jar, entrapping the spider. The jar can be inverted and the spider carried outside. If this method requires more courage than you can muster, the spiders can also be vacuumed up, or simply smashed.

The best control for any spider is excluding them from the house by making sure all the doors and windows close tightly and all screens are in good repair. Also, inspect any firewood, boxes or anything else that was stored outside before you bring it in. Sweep and vacuum behind washers and dryers regularly as this is a good area for spiders and their prey because it is dark and moist. Move heavy furniture periodically so you can clean beneath it and occasionally remove and clean curtains, pictures and other wall decorations. Finally, don't leave an outside light on constantly as it will attract insects and things that eat insects such as spiders and centipedes.