Florida is home to many types of spiders – some are native species, and some have migrated from other countries. There are harmless spiders and dangerous spiders, and it’s helpful to know how to tell them apart. Black widow spiders are native to Florida, known for the distinctive red markings on their stomachs. Although a bite from a black widow is rarely fatal, it will require immediate medical attention. Black widows are the most venomous spider in the United States, so it’s important to be aware of this spider species. There are quite a few other venomous kinds of spiders in Florida, but most of them do not pose a threat to humans because their venom is too weak to cause real harm, except in the case of an allergic reaction.
Types Of Spiders Found In Florida
There are many types of spiders in Florida, from common house spiders to semi-aquatic spiders. Encountering large spider webs in your garden or between hedges and trees on a neighborhood walk is very common in Southern Florida, as many kinds of orb-weaver spiders live outdoors and thrive in the tropical climate.
Brown recluse spiders are often found in Florida as well, though they are not a native species. Brown recluse spiders are dangerous and well-named, as they like to hide and can be found in unlikely places such as sheds, piles of clothes, and storage boxes. Several other non-native species have migrated to Florida over the years, such as the Banana Spider. Banana Spiders, also known as Golden Orb-Weaving Spiders, are native to South America. They are large spiders that spin golden webs and are considered beneficial because they eat mosquitoes, fruit flies, and other bugs.
List Of Spiders Native To Florida
There are many spiders that are native to Florida – large and small, exotic and ordinary looking. House spiders and species of orb-weaver spiders are some of the most common spiders in Florida but are by no means the only ones. Some spiders favor woodlands, while others prefer marshland, gardens, beaches, or make their home indoors. Wolf spiders, for example, are a well-known native species because they are large and hairy looking, but are not dangerous.
Here are some other spiders that are native to Florida:
- Black Widow Spider
- Red Widow Spider
- Wolf Spider
- Florida Garden Spider
- Trapdoor Spider
- Spiny Orb Weaver
- Daddy Long Legs
- Common House Spider
- Crab Spider
- Green Lynx Spider
- Jumping Spider
- Fishing Spider
- Orchard Spider
Why Non-Native Spiders Are A Danger
Invasive species of spiders such as the Asian Huntsman Spider pose a threat to the environment because they affect the natural ecosystem of Florida differently than native species do. They can displace and destroy native species of spiders by eating their prey and making it harder for them to survive. Some non-native spiders adapt very well to the climate in Florida, which means that they have to be exterminated to prevent them from taking over.
How We Can Help You
As pest control professionals, we understand that spiders can be a nuisance whether they are venomous or not. Some people have an intense fear of spiders, in which case they should contact a pest control service to deal with any spider issue. A spider infestation must be dealt with properly, as spraying pesticides may not be effective for certain species of spiders. Invasive species of spiders should be eradicated so that they don’t disrupt the natural habitats of other spiders and insects. If you are noticing lots of spiders or spider webs in your home or on your property, contact us today.
Sources:
https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Health-and-Safety/Venomous-Spiders-in-Florida
https://owlcation.com/stem/The-Biggest-Spiders-in-Florida
