2 Venomous Spiders in Missouri

Missouri’s biodiverse landscapes offer a habitat for various species, including some of the more formidable inhabitants of the natural world: venomous spiders. These eight-legged arachnids can send shivers down your spine, especially species like the brown recluse or the black widow spider. 

In this blog, we will delve into the challenges posed by these eight-legged intruders and how our expert pest control services can help you regain peace of mind against venomous spiders in Missouri.

The brown recluse spider, also known as the fiddleback spider or violin spider, has gained quite a reputation for its venomous bite. These arachnids, native to regions across the United States, including Missouri, have a knack for hiding in our closets, shoes, basements, or clothing– often posing problems for unsuspecting homeowners.

While tiny, they aren’t hard to spot. With their characteristic violin-shaped marking on their back, you can easily identify these venomous spiders from other run-of-the-mill arachnids. 

A brown recluse is not the kind of critter you’d want as neighbors in Missouri, and here’s why:

• Venomous Bite: The brown recluse’s venom can cause necrotic skin lesions, leading to painful and potentially severe wounds.
• Habitat: These recluse spiders lurk in dark, secluded places. They’re excellent hiders, and encountering them can cause quite a shock.
• Nocturnal Predators: Brown recluses are nocturnal hunters, which means they’re more active at night and harder to spot.

While uncommon foes, it’s important to recognize the signs of a brown recluse spider infestation. As one of the most venomous spiders in Missouri, we’re here to help you stay vigilant and safe from unwanted encounters. 

One of the clearest indicators is the spiders’ actual presence. Brown recluses usually measure around 6-20 mm in body length and sport a distinctive violin-shaped marking on their back. If you spot these spiders roaming your home, they may have come indoors searching for food. 

Brown recluses’ web-building habits set them apart from other spiders. They opt for irregular, tangled webs tucked away in dim, concealed areas, which serve as their hideouts. Be vigilant as you search for these webs, paying close attention to the critters that inhabit them.

Additionally, as these spiders grow, they shed their exoskeletons, leaving behind what’s known as molts. Discovering these discarded skins can be a strong indicator of active brown recluse activity in the vicinity.

While it may not directly point to an infestation, the appearance of unexplained skin lesions or bites on yourself, your family members, or your pets is a cause for concern. Brown recluse bites can result in painful wounds and, in severe cases, necrotic skin. In such situations, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention.

Preventing brown recluse spiders from invading your home involves a combination of proactive measures. Here are some steps you can take:

• Declutter: Reduce hiding spots by decluttering your home and sealing cracks and crevices.
• Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning can help reduce spider populations. Pay special attention to storage areas and closets.
• Use Sticky Traps: Placing sticky traps in potential hiding spots can help monitor and reduce spider populations.
• Shake Out Clothes: Before putting on clothes stored for a while, give them a good shake to ensure no unwanted arachnid guests are hiding.
• Professional Pest Control: When in doubt, contact professionals like Absolute Pest Control for thorough inspections and tailored spider management solutions.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the black widow spider, another one of the venomous spiders in Missouri. Black widow venom contains potent neurotoxins. While fatalities are rare, their bites can lead to intense pain, muscle cramps, and flu-like symptoms.

Black widows are generally not aggressive, but they will bite if they feel threatened. Accidental encounters can lead to painful consequences.

Besides their sleek black exoskeleton and the bright red hourglass on their abdomen, black widow spiders are known for their distinctive, messy cobwebs. They tend to set up shop in dark, sheltered locations, such as garages, sheds, woodpiles, and even garden areas. The cobwebs are their hunting grounds, where they capture insects to feed on.

If you frequent these areas, take extra precautions by wearing gloves and long sleeves, as black widows can be present in their cobwebs. This species is generally not aggressive, but if you accidentally disturb their webs, they may bite in self-defense.

While other pests can form extensive colonies indoors, a substantial black widow spider infestation isn’t likely, especially if you have frequent pest inspections. Nevertheless, it’s not unusual to come across them clustered in dark and hidden spots. Keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Cobwebs: These haphazard cobwebs are commonly found in sheltered locations. If you encounter these cobwebs, it’s a clear sign that black widows may be present.
• Red Hourglass Marking: Adult female black widows are known for their distinctive red hourglass-shaped marking on their abdomen. If you spot one of these spiders with the red hourglass, exercise caution and be mindful that others may be nearby.
• Dark and Secluded Areas: Black widows prefer to build their cobwebs in undisturbed areas. You may spot a web in cluttered corners, under furniture, and around outdoor structures. Pay special attention to these spots, especially in garages, sheds, and basements.

Preventing encounters with these venomous spiders in Missouri begins with understanding their habits and habitats. Here are some proactive measures to help you minimize the risk of unwelcome spider guests:

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect dark and secluded areas where brown recluses and black widows may hide. Look for their distinctive webs and retreats.
• Declutter: Regularly clean and declutter storage areas to eliminate potential hiding spots for brown recluses.
• Seal Entry Points: Seal cracks and crevices around your home to prevent spiders from getting in.
• Outdoor Maintenance: Keep your garden and outdoor spaces tidy, especially if you have woodpiles, sheds, or other areas where black widows may thrive.
• Professional Help: If you suspect an infestation or have concerns about venomous spiders in your home, contact experts like Absolute Pest Control. We have the knowledge and tools to handle these arachnids for you.

If you suspect that your home has become a haven for brown recluses or black widows, don’t panic. Always prioritize your safety. Avoid handling spiders, especially if you’re uncertain about their identity. Seek medical attention for spider bites.

When in doubt, it’s always wise to reach out to us at Absolute Pest Control. With our knowledge, experience, and practical solutions, you can rest easy knowing your home is protected from venomous spiders in Missouri.

Contact us today for pest control treatment in the Kansas City Metro area!