Many spiders native to Florida are harmless since they prey on mosquitos and flies, and may act as a natural form of pest control for your home or business. However, there are certain species that leave poisonous bites on human skin that can cause serious illnesses or infections. Here are a handful of spiders and how to identify them in your commercial building or residence.

4 Common Spiders Found in Florida

1. Brown Recluse

Brown recluses are approximately one-quarter to three-quarters of an inch long, ranging in color from tan to brown. Their most notable feature is a dark brown shape resembling a violin on the abdomen.

These spiders build webs in areas that humans do not often frequent, such as attics, storage rooms, and sheds. Though bites are rare, they produce venom that may cause pain, itching, and necrosis of the flesh. 

2. Wolf

Wolf spiders resemble brown recluses but have fine hair that covers their bodies. They may have any combination of black, brown, gray, or tan body parts.

They grow up to one-and-a-half inches long and typically live in moist areas, such as laundry facilities and bathroom closets, since they hunt for insects in water. Though they may bite, they are not poisonous and typically cause minimal discomfort. 

3. Black Widow

Black widows are about one-half inch long with shiny black bodies. Their most distinctive characteristic is an reddish hourglass-like marking beneath their round abdomens. 

They typically build webs in covered, undisturbed indoor areas, such as closets, attics, and garages. They may bite humans when they feel threatened, injecting venom into the skin that causes pain and muscle cramps, requiring medical attention. 

4. Funnel Weavers

Funnel weavers are dark orange or brown spiders with a light-colored markings on the thorax and dark bands on the legs. Their name stems from their funnel-shaped webs, which they build in dark and secluded areas, such as in cabinets and behind furniture, where their eggs will remain protected. Their bites are not harmful to humans. 

 

If you notice poisonous or pesky spiders on your property, the exterminators at Extreme Pest Management will remove them. This pest control team offers insect and rodent removal services to homes and businesses throughout Eustis, FL. Call (352) 483-2555 to book an appointment for pest management, and visit the website to learn more about how to get a discount on a one-year pest control contract.