Dangerous Spiders in Virginia

While there are many harmless and common spiders in Virginia, there are also several dangerous spiders in Virginia that live near and can invade the inside of homes. It is important to be aware of these species so that you can protect yourself and your family from their poisonous bites.

The two most common poisonous spiders in Virginia are:

Brown Recluse Spiders
Black Widow Spiders

Brown Recluse Spiders

Brown recluse spiders have a round body and long legs. They grow to be ¼ to ½ of an inch in length. They can be a light brown to dark brown color and have a unique violin-shaped pattern on the top of their body. They have three pairs of eyes that are arranged in a semi-circle. These spiders are very shy and reclusive. They build their webs in quiet, secluded areas like closets, attics, and basements. Brown recluses are very common in Virginia.

Black Widow Spiders

Black widow spiders range in length from 1 ½ - 1 3/8th of an inch. They have a round body shape. They are shiny black and have a distinctive red “hourglass” shape on their back. Black widow spiders build webs in dark, hidden places like under rocks or in holes in trees.

How to prevent dangerous spiders

The best way to prevent dangerous spiders from invading your home is to get rid of the areas around your home that may attract them. Tips for preventing poisonous spiders in Virginia include:

Remove piles of leaves, fallen limbs, and other debris from your property.
Be sure that woodpiles are kept up off of the ground and away from the exterior of your home.
All garage and shed doors must remain shut when not being used.
Seal cracks in foundations and caulk gaps around exterior windows and doors.
Also, when removing items, especially clothing, that has been stored for a period of time, you should shake them out before putting them on.

Poisonous Spiders in Virginia

If you think you may come in contact with spiders at some point, keep these things in mind:

The venom from a brown recluse spider will cause the tissue around the bite to ulcerate. The necrosis of the tissue can take weeks to months to heal. Fever, restlessness, and trouble sleeping are other common symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite.
The venom from a black widow spider can affect the nervous system. Symptoms of a black widow spider bite include fever, increased blood pressure, sweating and nausea.
Both species are not particularly aggressive and will generally only bite if they are defending their eggs, feel threatened, or are being squished.
Black widow and brown recluse spiders can often be found hiding in woodpiles, basements, attics, sheds, boxes, clothing, shoes, and underneath of furniture.

What should you do if you've been bitten by a spider?

Bites from dangerous and poisonous spiders are rare and serious complications or fatalities rarely happen as long as treatment is sought. If you have been bitten by or think you have been bitten by a poisonous spider the best course of action is to seek immediate emergency medical attention. If possible bring the spider with you in a sealed container so that it can be correctly identified by a medical professional.

Dangerous Spider Control in Virginia

Mitchell Pest Services is ready to combat dangerous spiders that have made their way into your home or business. Simply contact us today to learn more about our treatment options.

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