Spiders are a frequent—and sometimes unwelcome—resident in East Texas homes and yards. But most spiders are harmless, and in fact helpful, as they feed on insects. Understanding which species trouble homeowners, which pose risks, and what behaviors to look out for can help you handle spiders more confidently and effectively.
Spider Facts & Information
What Is a Spider?
Spiders are arachnids (in the class Arachnida), meaning they are more closely related to scorpions and ticks than to insects. Key traits:
Eight legs (versus six in insects)
Two main body segments: cephalothorax (head + thorax) and abdomen
No antennae or wings
Specialized silk glands (spinnerets) that produce silk for webs, egg sacs, or burrow linings
Venom and fangs (chelicerae) in almost all species, used to subdue prey (usually insects)
Predatory diet: spiders feed on other arthropods—flies, mosquitoes, small insects, etc.
Spiders play a valuable role by helping reduce populations of pest insects around homes, lawns, and gardens.
How Many Species in Texas?
Texas is home to a very large variety of spiders: some sources estimate around 900 species statewide. However, only a small fraction of those are commonly encountered by homeowners, and even fewer pose any danger to people.
Venomous Spiders: Real Risks vs. Myths
Although most spiders have venom (to immobilize prey), very few are medically significant to humans. The Texas Department of State Health Services notes two spider groups in Texas are considered venomous in the sense of posing real risk to people: the black widow and the brown recluse.
If you see a spider bite, don’t immediately assume it’s from a “deadly spider”—many skin lesions or insect bites are misattributed to spiders. But when the culprit is one of the few dangerous species, prompt medical attention is critical.
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Black Widow
Shiny appearance, with red hourglass marking on underside of abdomen. Usually in tangled webs near ground level, in dark undisturbed areas.
Venom Risk to Humans
High: neurotoxic venom; bites may cause systemic symptoms (pain, cramping, sweating) -
Brown Recluse
Look for the “violin / fiddle” shape on the cephalothorax (neck region), six eyes (in three pairs) instead of eight, relatively uniform coloration.
Venom Risk to Humans
High: venom can cause necrosis (tissue damage) and systemic effects in some cases. -
Wolf Spiders
Strong runner type spiders (hunt rather than weave webs); good eyesight; distinct stripe or pattern sometimes visible.
Venom Risk to Humans
Low: not dangerous to humans; bite may cause temporary pain and swelling. -
Jumping Spiders
Short legs, often “stocky”; move in leaps, very active during the day; excellent eyesight.
Venom Risk to Humans
Very low: bites are rare and usually minor. -
Orb Weaver Spiders
Build circular “orb” webs; many species have patterned abdomens (spots, bands, etc.)
Venom Risk to Humans
Very low: not considered harmful to humans -
Texas Brown Tarantula
Thick body and legs, hairy; burrowing rather than web-building.
Venom Risk to Humans
Low: their bites are rarely serious; local pain is possible. -
Brown Widow Spider
Similar to black widow but lighter color; sometimes an orange or yellow hourglass.
Venom Risk to Humans
Moderate: considered venomous though often less dangerous than the black widow. -
Common House Spider
Rounded abdomen, long slender legs, and messy, tangled webs typically found in corners or near ceilings.
Venom Risk to Humans
Low – Bites are extremely rare and not medically significant; these spiders are considered beneficial.
Where Spiders Are Found & How They Behave
Outdoors
Woodpiles, brush, logs, and leaf litter: Many spiders hide in or beneath natural cover.
Under stones, concrete slabs, garden walls, crawlspaces: These offer cool, dark, humid refuge.
Vegetation, shrubs, fences: Orb weavers often spin webs between branches or across open spaces to capture flying insects.
Burrows, underground tunnels, and cracks: Tarantulas and wolf spiders may dig burrows or take advantage of existing holes.
Outdoor structures: Sheds, garages, porches, fences, eaves.
Indoors
Basements, attics, storage areas: Dark, undisturbed places are ideal for recluses and spiders that dislike disturbance.
Corners, ceilings, behind furniture, closets: Web-building spiders may spin webs in hidden corners or near light sources (which attract insects).
Around doors, windows, vents: Spiders may enter through small openings.
In wall voids or crawlspaces: Some species navigate inside walls in search of prey or shelter.
Behavior & Activity Patterns
Web-based hunters (orb weavers, widow types) wait passively for prey to get ensnared in their web.
Active hunters (wolf spiders, jumping spiders) roam and pounce on prey rather than waiting.
Nocturnal species: Many spiders are more active at night or dusk, using the cover of darkness.
Seasonal movement: In cooler months, spiders may seek warmer shelter indoors; in warmer months, reproduction and dispersal increase.
The Dangers & Nuisances of Spider Infestations
While most spiders pose little threat, infestations or repeated indoor presence can lead to several issues:
1. Bites, Some of Which Are Medically Significant
Black widow bites: May cause muscle pain, abdominal cramping, sweating, nausea, and—rarely—severe systemic symptoms.
Brown recluse bites: Can lead to skin necrosis (tissue death), ulcers, or systemic effects like fever or chills. Prompt medical evaluation is essential.
Most other species may bite defensively—but those bites are usually mild and temporary.
2. Allergic Reactions & Secondary Infections
Even a benign spider bite can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Also, puncture wounds can become infected if not cleaned and monitored.
3. Psychological / Perceived Threat
Many people fear spiders (arachnophobia). Seeing webs, multiple spiders, or large species inside the home causes stress and discomfort.
4. Webs, Debris & Aesthetic Damage
Webs and shed exoskeletons may accumulate in corners, along eaves, or in seldom-used rooms—creating a messy appearance.
5. Potential for More Pest Insects
Spider presence is often a sign of abundant insect prey. So, an infestation could signal a broader pest problem (flies, mosquitoes, cockroaches) that is drawing spiders in.
6. Misidentification / Overreaction
People sometimes assume every spider = danger, leading to unnecessary pesticide use or luring of potentially “dangerous” species deeper into hidden areas.
What to Do If You Suspect a Spider Problem
Keep areas tidy, reduce clutter, shake out shoes and clothing stored long in dark spaces.
Seal cracks, gaps, and utility entry points to reduce spider ingress.
Use sticky traps or interceptors in corners, basements, attics to monitor activity.
Clean webs and egg sacs as soon as you see them (wear gloves, be cautious).
For suspected black widow or recluse presence—or if you see repeated indoor activity—contact a pest professional who can identify species, locate harborages, and treat appropriately.
Protect Your Home — Schedule a Free Inspection
If spiders are making you uneasy in your own home, don’t wait for the problem to grow — contact Total Home Pest Solutions today for safe, effective spider control. Our experts can identify, treat, and prevent spider infestations so you can enjoy a pest-free home year-round.
FAQs
1. Why do I have so many spiders in my house?
Spiders often come indoors searching for food — usually other insects. If you’re seeing a lot of spiders, it may be a sign of another pest problem in your home. They also seek shelter during temperature changes or rainy weather, making garages, basements, and attics ideal hiding spots.
2. Are the spiders in my home dangerous?
Most spiders in East Texas are harmless and actually help control other insects. However, two species — the Black Widow and Brown Recluse — are venomous and should be taken seriously. If you’re unsure what kind of spider you’ve found, it’s best to avoid contact and call a professional for identification.
3. How can I tell if a spider is venomous?
Venomous spiders like the Black Widow are shiny black with a distinctive red hourglass marking on the abdomen. The Brown Recluse is light to medium brown with a dark, violin-shaped mark on its back. Both prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, garages, and woodpiles.
4. What’s the best way to prevent spiders from coming inside?
Seal cracks around doors, windows, and foundations, and keep outdoor lighting to a minimum since lights attract insects (a food source for spiders). Regularly dust, vacuum, and remove clutter where spiders may hide, such as boxes, shoes, and storage bins.
5. Can I get rid of spiders on my own?
While removing webs and using store-bought sprays can help temporarily, these methods don’t address the root of the problem — their food supply. Professional pest control can safely eliminate both spiders and the insects that attract them, offering long-term prevention.
6. When should I call a pest control expert for spiders?
If you’re seeing frequent spider activity, finding webs in multiple areas, or suspect venomous species, it’s time to contact a professional. Total Home Pest Solutions can inspect your home, identify spider species, and create a safe, targeted treatment plan for lasting protection.