You’re at home, and you see a spider. It’s brown, fast, and a bit menacing. Before you know it, your mind is racing with the possibilities of what kind of spider it could be.
Is it a common house spider or something more sinister?
The hobo spider is a species that’s often misunderstood, but we’ll break down what is and what you should do if you find one in this post.
Meet the Hobo Spider
The hobo spider, scientifically known as Tegenaria agrestis, has a reputation that precedes it. Often mistaken for the more notorious brown recluse, the hobo spider is a common inhabitant in many homes across North America. But what sets it apart from other spiders?
Hobo spiders are typically brown with a distinct pattern on their abdomen, resembling a herringbone. They have long, spindly legs and can grow to about 1-1.5 inches in length.
While their appearance might be alarming, understanding their behavior and habitat can help put your mind at ease.
Where Do Hobo Spiders Come From?
Originally native to Europe, hobo spiders made their way to North America in the early 20th century. They were first identified in the Pacific Northwest but have since spread to various parts of the United States and Canada.
Their migration is attributed to human activity, such as the transportation of goods and materials.
Hobo spiders prefer dark, damp environments and are commonly found in basements, crawl spaces, and other secluded areas of your home.
They create funnel-shaped webs, which they use to catch their prey. These webs are often located near ground level, making them easy to miss until you accidentally stumble upon one.
The Infamous Hobo Spider Bite
One of the main reasons hobo spiders have gained notoriety is due to their bite. While not all hobo spiders are aggressive, they will bite if they feel threatened. But how dangerous is their bite?
Contrary to popular belief, hobo spider bites are rarely life-threatening. Most bites result in mild symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching.
However, in some cases, individuals may experience more severe reactions, including headaches, nausea, and fatigue. It’s important to note that allergic reactions to spider venom can vary from person to person.
A few other common myths about hobo spiders include:
- Hobo spiders are highly poisonous – While their venom can cause discomfort, it is not deadly. Most symptoms are manageable and subside within a few days.
- Hobo spiders are aggressive hunters – Hobo spiders are actually quite shy and prefer to avoid human contact. They only bite when provoked.
- All brown spiders are hobo spiders – Many brown spiders share similar features, but not all are hobo spiders. Proper identification is key to understanding what you’re dealing with.
Identifying the Hobo Spider
Accurate identification of hobo spiders is key when it comes to understanding their behavior and potential risks.
Here are some key characteristics to look out for:
- Color – Hobo spiders are typically brown with a lighter, herringbone pattern on their abdomen.
- Size – They can grow up to 1-1.5 inches in length, including their legs.
- Webs – Hobo spiders create funnel-shaped webs, often near ground level in dark, damp areas.
If you’re unsure whether you’ve encountered a hobo spider, it’s best to consult with a pest control professional for accurate identification.
Their behaviors may be able to lend you some clues as to their true identity, too. For instance, their nesting habits – hobo spiders build funnel-shaped webs in dark, secluded areas.
As for their diets, these spiders primarily feed on insects, so reducing the insect population in your home can make it less attractive to spiders.
Finally, pay attention to their movements based on the season. Hobo spiders are most active during the fall when they seek warm indoor environments.
Hobo Spiders vs. Brown Recluse
As we mentioned earlier, it’s easy to mistake a hobo spider for a brown recluse, as both share similar characteristics. However, there are some key differences.
For one, brown recluse spiders have violin-shaped markings on their back, while hobo spiders do not. They also create irregular, loose webs, whereas hobo spiders build funnel-shaped webs.
Finally, the geographic range differs. Brown recluse spiders are primarily found in the central and southern United States, whereas hobo spiders are more common in the Pacific Northwest and other northern regions.
What to Do If You Find a Hobo Spider
If you encounter a hobo spider in your home, there’s no need to panic. Here are some steps you can take:
- Capture and Release – If you’re comfortable doing so, you can capture the spider using a glass jar and a piece of paper, then release it outside. This is the most humane approach.
- Use a Vacuum – For those who prefer not to handle spiders, using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment is an effective method for removal.
- Consult a Professional – If you’re unsure about handling the situation or have concerns about an infestation, contacting a pest control professional is the safest option.
In the future, take steps to prevent these pests from coming into your home in the first place. Seal your home’s entry points, inspecting for gaps, cracks, and holes that spiders can use to get inside. You can use caulk or weatherstripping to keep them out.
Also, do your best to reduce clutter, as spiders love hiding in cluttered areas. Keeping your home tidy and organized can reduce hiding spots for these and other pests.
Don’t forget that, like other pests, hobo spiders also prefer damp environments. Using dehumidifiers and ensuring proper ventilation can make your home less appealing to them.
When to Call Thunder Pest Control
While DIY methods can be effective, there are times when professional intervention is necessary. If you notice an increase in hobo spider sightings or suspect an infestation, it’s time to call Thunder Pest Control in Oklahoma City.
While the sight of a hobo spider might be unsettling, understanding these eight-legged visitors can help you manage them effectively.
If you’re in Oklahoma City and need assistance with hobo spiders or any other pests, don’t hesitate to reach out to Thunder Pest Control.
Schedule your inspection today and take the first step towards a safer, more comfortable home.
