5 California Spider Species You Can See In Your Home

When it comes to California spider species, the Golden State is home to a wide variety of eight-legged critters. From the common house spider spinning webs in corners to the infamous black widow lurking in dark spaces, these arachnids are just part of life in California.

‍

While most spiders are harmless and even beneficial (they help control other pests!), there are a few species you definitely don’t want getting too cozy in your home. So, which ones should you watch out for, and what should you do if they overstay their welcome?

‍

Let’s explore the California spider species you’re most likely to encounter and how ProCraft Pest Control can help keep these creepy crawlies under control.

Common Spider Species in California

California is home to a variety of spider species, some more common than others. Knowing what’s crawling around your home can help you stay calm when you spot one—and let you know when it’s time to call in the pros.

The Black Widow

One of the most feared California spider species, the black widow, is famous for its shiny black body and red hourglass marking. Found in dark, secluded areas like garages, basements, and under furniture, black widows can pack a serious punch if provoked. Their venom is toxic and can cause symptoms ranging from muscle pain to nausea, though fatalities are rare.

‍

They have been largely displaced by the brown widow over the last 20 years. The brown widow is similar in appearance to the black widow but is thinner and lighter in color.  They also can be identified by their spiked egg sacs. Brown widows will have higher population densities and will nest in more areas than the black widows. The black widow nests primarily in areas close to the ground. Both have messy webs.

‍

What to watch for: Look for messy webs in undisturbed corners and the distinctive black body with the red hourglass marking.

‍

ProCraft Tip: If you see a black widow, it’s best to leave it alone and call a pest control professional. These spiders aren’t aggressive but will bite if threatened.

The Brown Recluse

While not native to California, brown recluses occasionally find their way into the state through transported goods or travelers. These sightings are extremely rare. According to U.C. Riverside, less than ten specimens have ever been collected in California. You have a better chance of winning the lottery than finding a Brown Recluse in California.

‍

Brown recluses are light brown with a violin-shaped marking on their back. They’re famous for their necrotic bites, which can cause tissue damage and serious infection if left untreated.

‍

What to watch for: Brown recluses are reclusive (hence the name!) and are usually found in boxes, clothing piles, or other undisturbed areas.

‍

ProCraft Tip: Brown recluse sightings in California are rare, but if you suspect one, don’t take any chances. Let a professional handle it to avoid the risk of a dangerous bite.

The Common House Spider

The house spider is one of the most widespread California spider species. These small, tan, or gray spiders are harmless and typically build their webs in the corners of rooms, windowsills, or closets. While their webs can be a nuisance, house spiders are great for controlling other pests like flies and mosquitoes.

‍

What to watch for: Look for cobwebs in the corners of ceilings or windows. The spiders themselves are small, with elongated bodies and spindly legs.

‍

ProCraft Tip: If you’re finding more webs than you’d like to clean up, a quick call to ProCraft can help keep these annoying visitors under control.

The Wolf Spider

Unlike other spiders, wolf spiders don’t spin webs to catch prey. Instead, they hunt on the ground, pouncing on insects and other small creatures. They’re fast, hairy, and often mistaken for tarantulas due to their size.  Due to their routine hunting, they often can make their way into a home in an attempt to find prey.  One of the more common spiders that a socal homeowner will find inside their house.

‍

What to watch for: These spiders are dark brown with long, robust legs and are often seen darting across the ground, especially in outdoor areas like gardens or garages.

‍

ProCraft Tip: Though they look scary, wolf spiders are not dangerous to humans. However, if they’re making frequent appearances in your home, a pest control expert can help manage the population.

The Orb-Weaver Spider

If you’ve ever walked into a massive, circular web in your garden or backyard, you’ve likely encountered an orb-weaver. These spiders are renowned for their intricate webs, which they use to trap flying insects. Orb-weavers are non-aggressive and come in various colors and sizes, often with a distinct bulbous abdomen.

‍

What to watch for: Their elaborate webs are hard to miss, especially in outdoor areas. The spiders themselves range in color from yellow to brown and are most active at night.

‍

ProCraft Tip: Orb-weavers are great for keeping your garden’s insect population under control, so it’s best to leave them be. If they become a nuisance, though, ProCraft can offer solutions for managing them.

How to Prevent Spiders from Invading Your Home

While most spiders are helpful, no one wants their home to become a haven for arachnids. Here are a few tips to keep California spider species at bay:

‍

• Seal entry points: Spiders often enter homes through cracks, gaps, or poorly sealed windows. Inspect your home’s exterior and seal any potential entry points.
• Keep your home tidy: Spiders love clutter because it provides hiding spots and ideal places to spin webs. Regularly clean up piles of clothing, boxes, and papers.
• Reduce outdoor lighting: Insects are attracted to light, and where there are insects, there are spiders. Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights or switch to yellow “bug lights” to reduce the spider buffet near your home.
• Use spider repellents: Natural repellents like peppermint oil or vinegar can help deter spiders from entering your home.

When to Call ProCraft Pest Control

If you’re seeing more spiders than usual or are concerned about dangerous California spider species, it’s time to call in the experts. ProCraft Pest Control has years of experience dealing with spiders and other pests common to California homes.

‍

We provide comprehensive pest control services that target the source of infestations and keep your home spider-free. Our team of professionals uses safe and effective methods to ensure that both you and your family stay safe while your home stays pest-free.

‍

Don’t let spiders spin their webs in your space. Contact ProCraft Pest Control today to take care of your spider problem!

‍