There are so many different spider species found in Southern California. Most of them are venomous and will seek insects or other spiders to feed on. Although most spiders are venomous, most of them are still not dangerous to people. They may also attack when threatened, but in most cases, these spiders will just run away and hide. Their venom is mostly suitable for insects so that they can consume them easily, but most spiders are not dangerous to humans. In fact, they provide us a free service as they consume insect pests from inside and outside the house.
5 of the Most Common Spiders
Black Widow
Although about 5% of cases of people being bitten by the black widow resulted in death, most of those who were bitten fully recovered from the bite. However, this spider is still considered dangerous in Southern California, and still pose a great threat to humans. Those who were bitten may suffer from shortness of breath, muscle aches, and nausea since the venom is stronger than other spiders. It is easy to identify a black widow because of its coloration and its red hourglass marking on its belly. The southern black widow also has that glossy black coloration and prominent red hourglass figure.
Brown Recluse
This spider is actually a common house spider in California. In most cases, this spider does not bite and will just avoid confrontation with humans. They are not aggressive and have been known to live with men harmoniously. However, the bite of the brown recluse can cause an alarm because their venom has the ability to damage tissues that can spread to organs. For sensitive individuals who were bitten by this spider, their bite mark may leave a deep-crater like shape that will heal after several months . But, do not worry since most of those who were bitten by the brown recluse had no serious reactions, and just healed on their own.
California Trapdoor Spider
As the name suggests, this spider is a native to Southern California. It is common indoors and have an appearance similar to tarantulas. They may also bite unsuspecting people when they are disturbed from their corner. Although they still carry a venom, their bite is not dangerous to humans.
Long Legged Sac Spider
This spider prefers to hide under surfaces or in the corners of ceilings. They prefer homes and buildings, and can be dangerous to people as their venomous bite can be painful, especially for sensitive individuals. A great concern for those who have been bitten by this spider is the infection and allergic reaction they can get from them. The bite may heal slowly. However, this spider is not dangerous to humans as they rarely bite.
Yellow Sac Spider
This spider is common in homes. They are usually found high up on walls or on the ceilings, although they can also be found in their natural outdoor habitat. This spider is slightly more aggressive compared to other house spiders and may bite when threatened.
The bite of the yellow sac spider will still depend on the individual being bitten. Some individuals may suffer from a small red bump that could last after a couple of weeks. Some victims may also experience swelling, burning and pain after the bite followed by pustule developing at the infected area. If bitten, avoid smashing the spider, but catch it instead, so that the spider can be properly identified. This is most necessary for individuals who suffer from worse symptoms.
To get help with an existing spider issue in California, visit Orange County Spider Control or call 714-528-2847.