There are over 45,000 species of spiders worldwide, with at least 600 species in Utah. Some are harmless, while some are deadly. Venomous spiders inject their prey with toxins that can paralyze them. Here are the five most dangerous spiders in St. George.
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1. Black Widow
The black widow is a common species in Utah. It has a unique red hourglass mark under the abdomen and is shiny when mature. However, they can look lighter before maturity. Ideally, these spiders hide in undisturbed areas within your home where there is minimal activity near them, like crevices, rocks, fences, piles of wood, and debris.
Once this spider bites you, it leaves you with two bite holes on your skin where its fangs are pierced. Symptoms from the spider bite usually appear after 20 or 30 minutes and include muscle cramps, vomiting, shock, confusion, and high blood pressure.
It is advisable to remain calm to reduce the venom flow into your blood, apply ice on the affected area, and seek immediate medical help. Also, consider spider control methods like cleaning and keeping your house clutter-free to destroy their habitats.
2. Brown Recluse
This type is between 6 and 20mm long, light brown, with a unique mark on its neck and back that’s almost similar to a violin shape. It is mostly found in dry areas with plenty of heat. When it bites you, apply ice to the bite area, press the wound and keep it elevated. Also, seek immediate medical help if you develop a boil. Bites from this spider can cause skin lesions or infections.
3. Hobo Spider
This type is hard to identify but has an abdomen with V-shaped patterns pointing to its head. It also has a stripe running down the middle of the chest. Hobo spiders are brown and run extremely fast. However, they are poor climbers, meaning they build their webs near the ground or in crevices and holes.
Once bitten, you can get necrosis, a condition that causes the affected skin to begin dying. Also, you experience numbing within 15 minutes after the bite, reddening in one hour, and blistering within 24 to 36 hours.
4. Wolf Spiders
Wolf spiders are large and often found in grassy areas or farmland. They have a hairy texture and carry their offspring on their backs. In addition, their bite is painful and may cause different reactions depending on the victim’s allergies. However, it is essential to seek medical help.
5. Yellow Sac Spider
This type has a 6mm average length, with its first two legs significantly longer. They are found in corners, ceilings, and baseboards. Their bite is painful, and the pain can last over 90 minutes. You can experience redness, swelling, burning, or itching. Apply hydrogen peroxide and ice to the affected area, then seek medical help if the symptoms persist.
Why Homeowners Require Spider Control
- Homeowners require spider control to minimize food contamination in pantries or kitchens.
- Spider control also helps reduce fear and the unsettling experience when people see spiders.
- It helps their homes stay clean and free from cobwebs.
- Spider control minimizes the risks of health risks associated with spider bites.
Conclusion
It is essential to use spider control for your family’s best interest, especially if you have small kids. So, keep your house clean and clutter-free and call a professional spider control firm if you think your home is spider-infested.