Spiders in the south

Wolf spiders in alabama

Wolf spiders are commonly found throughout Alabama, thriving in various habitats, from forests to gardens. These large, hairy spiders are easily recognizable due to their robust bodies and long legs. Unlike other spiders, wolf spiders don’t spin webs to catch their prey. Instead, they are agile hunters that actively stalk and pounce on their food, primarily insects.

While wolf spiders can look intimidating, they are generally harmless to humans. Their bites can cause mild irritation and discomfort, but serious reactions are rare. In Alabama, these spiders tend to be more active during the warmer months, often seen darting across paths or hiding under rocks and debris. Homeowners may find them in basements, garages, or outdoor spaces, particularly if they have a high insect population.

To keep wolf spiders at bay, maintaining a tidy yard, sealing cracks in the home, and minimizing outdoor lighting can help reduce their attraction. If their presence becomes overwhelming, consulting a pest control expert is a good idea.

Spider Prevention Tips

There are a few things you can do to try and keep spiders from getting into your home:

• Remove piles of wood, fallen trees, rock piles and other piles of debris from your property.
• Keep your lawn cut short and maintained.
• Trim tree branches and bushes away from the outside of your home.
• Seal gaps or cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.
• Place weather stripping around all exterior windows and doors.
• Replace torn window or door screens.
• Eliminate water sources by making sure gutters are clear and repairing leaky pipes, faucets, or fixtures.

Southern Spider FAQs

How do spiders gain access?

Spiders typically gain access to homes by crawling underneath doors, through spaces found around windows and doors, through open windows and doors, or through tears in screens. Spiders usually prefer to live outside, but they do move inside sometimes as they follow their prey. They may also seek access to indoor shelter if the weather becomes too hot, dry, or wet.

Where do spiders hide?

Outside, spiders hide in a variety of locations, including in gardens, in rock piles, underneath piles of debris, in shrubs and bushes, or in outbuildings such as garages, sheds, and barns. Some species may burrow into the ground.

Inside, spiders like to hide in dark, secluded spaces, staying out of sight of people. Typical hiding spots for spiders include in the corners of rooms and closets, basements and attics, underneath furniture, in storage boxes, or underneath bedding.

What are the signs of spiders?

To determine if spiders are nesting or breeding on your property, be on the lookout for the following signs:

• Finding spider webs throughout your home.
• Discovering live spiders throughout your home.
• Having large populations of insects in gardens or other areas in or around your home. Where there are insects, there will be spiders feeding.

What should I do if I find a spider in my home?

The first step is to assess whether it poses a threat. Most spiders are harmless and can even be beneficial by controlling pest populations. However, if you suspect it might be venomous or if you have a spider infestation, it's wise to contact a professional for spider removal. They can safely remove the spider and provide advice on preventing future infestations.

How can I prevent spiders from entering my home?

Start by sealing cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations. Keeping your home clean and clutter-free reduces hiding spots for spiders. Additionally, outdoor maintenance, such as trimming back vegetation and removing debris, can deter spiders from approaching your home.

Can I get rid of spiders myself?

Spiders are invasive, and can be dangerous for you and your family to be around. We strongly encourage you to call a professional as soon as you suspect that you may have a spider infestation. Call us at Havard Pest Control to take advantage of our 70 years of pest control experience