Autumn marks the start of a unique period for many homeowners — spider mating season. During this time, you might notice an increase in the number of eight-legged creatures skittering across your floors or lurking in corners. This is because, during mating season, male spiders and female spiders are actively searching for partners, making their presence more noticeable in our homes. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through understanding this phenomenon and provide tips to keep these critters from gaining access to your cozy spaces.
Understanding Spider Mating Season
The start of spider mating season typically begins in early September and peaks in mid-October but can last through November. It’s a short period where spiders become more visible as males wander in search of females to mate with. Species like house spiders, lace web spiders, wolf spiders, sun spiders, and outdoor spiders are particularly active during this time.
Mating spiders can often be seen in pairs, and post-mating, the female spiders may lay eggs, leading to more spiders in your home.
Why Spiders Enter Homes
Spiders seek refuge indoors for several reasons. A nice dry place to escape the damp outdoor conditions, finding a mate, and locating great spider hiding places to lay their egg sacs are among the top reasons. House spiders and outdoor spiders, including eight legged creepy crawlies like leaf litter and wood piles dwellers, might find your home particularly inviting.
How to Deter Spiders During Mating Season
To deter spiders, start by reducing entry points. Seal any little cracks in walls, window sills, and skirting boards. Cluttered places provide ideal hiding spots for spiders, so keeping your house tidy can make a big difference. Clutter encourages spiders to seek refuge and potentially lay eggs.
1. Maintain a Tidy Outdoor Space
Keeping your outdoor space tidy is crucial. Clear away leaf litter, wood piles, and any debris that could serve as an ideal habitat for spiders. Make sure to avoid plants touching the exterior of your home, as these can act as bridges for critters to gain access.
2. Seal Cracks and Openings
Spiders can enter through little cracks and openings around doors, windows, and foundations. Inspect your home and seal cracks effectively. Pay special attention to window sills and doorways.
3. Reduce Clutter
Inside your home, reduce clutter, which can be great spider hiding places. Store things neatly and avoid leaving clothes or other items on the floor.
4. Use Strong Scents
Spiders are known to dislike strong scents. Using essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, or other strong aromas can help deter spiders. You can create a spray by diluting these oils in water and spraying corners, windows, and doorways.
5. Draw Chalk Lines
An unusual but reportedly effective method involves drawing chalk lines. Some believe that spiders taste the chalk with their feet and are deterred by it.
6. Keep Natural Light Flowing
Spiders love dark, secluded areas. Allowing natural light into your home can make the environment less appealing to them.
7. Regular Cleaning
Frequent vacuuming and dusting can remove spiders and their webs. Dust regularly, especially in corners and under furniture.
The Myth of Spider Danger
It’s important to note that, despite popular belief, most spiders, including house spiders and lace web spiders, are harmless to humans. They rarely bite unless provoked and are actually beneficial in controlling other pests. However, during spider mating season, their increased numbers and presence noticeable in our homes can be unnerving.
Dustin Pest Control Can Keep Your Home Spider-Free During Spider Mating Season and Year Round
Spider season can be a challenging time for those not fond of these eight-legged creatures. You can effectively keep spiders out of your home by following our tips or giving your local pest control team at Dustin Pest Control a call. We handle not only spiders but also mosquito, ant, and cockroach extermination in Fresno, CA, and the surrounding areas.
And with the cool weather around the corner, be sure to ask about termite control services. We don’t want you to have to share your home with any little pests this winter!