What's Attracting All These Spiders to My Home Right Now?
It’s August in Shreveport—hot, humid, and buzzing with activity, including spiders. While many people associate spiders with Halloween, this is actually the time of year when Louisiana homeowners start seeing more spiders inside and around their homes.
So why are you suddenly seeing so many spiders? Is it normal, or a sign of a bigger problem? Here’s what’s going on and what you can do about it.
Seasonal Spider Surge: What’s Going On?
Spider sightings spike in late summer. That doesn’t always mean there are more spiders; it just means they’re more noticeable. Why? Many spider species, including those common in Louisiana, mate in late summer and early fall. Male spiders become more active as they roam around looking for mates.
The more spiders move about, the more obvious they are. While most of this activity is happening outdoors right now, expect to see more spiders indoors as we move closer to fall and nighttime temperatures begin to drop.
Why Spiders Are Coming Inside
Seeing more spiders inside your home? Here’s what could be drawing them in:
- Mating activity: Male spiders are on the move and may wander indoors by accident.
- Food and water: Spiders eat insects. If your home has bugs, spiders will follow. Moisture also attracts these pests.
- Weather shifts: Hot, dry, rainy, or cooler-than-normal weather can drive spiders inside seeking shelter.
If female spiders have already settled into your home and it provides everything they need, they’ll likely stay.
Common Spiders in Northwest Louisiana Homes
There are a lot of spider species in Northwest Louisiana, but not all of them are likely to get into your house. Of all the spiders in Bossier County, these are the ones you’re most likely to find in your home:
- Long-bodied cellar spiders: These spiders are also commonly known as daddy long legs.
- Wolf spiders: These spiders have big, hairy bodies and are fast runners.
- Jumping spiders: These spiders look similar to wolf spiders, but are good jumpers.
- Brown recluse spiders: These spiders have a violin-shaped mark on their backs and are venomous.
Should You Be Worried About Brown Recluse?
Brown recluse spiders are shy and like dark, quiet spaces, low to the ground. The risk comes when you accidentally disturb one, often while cleaning storage areas, moving boxes, or reaching into closets.
A brown recluse spider bite can cause mild irritation, but can also lead to more serious symptoms like fever, muscle pain, or tissue damage. If bitten, it’s best to seek medical attention.
How to Make Your Home Less Inviting to Spiders
You can reduce spider activity in and around your home with a few practical steps:
- Declutter and vacuum regularly, especially storage areas and dark corners
- Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation
- Eliminate other pest problems (a spider’s food source)
- Eliminate water sources by fixing leaks and reducing indoor humidity
- Cut back foliage around the exterior of your house
- Switch porch lights to yellow, bug-resistant lightbulbs
When to Call the Pest Pros
If you’ve tried prevention but still see spiders frequently, it may be time to call Anti-Pest. Reach out if:
- You’re seeing spiders regularly inside your home
- You’ve spotted venomous species like brown recluse spiders
- You want peace of mind that your home is protected
Most spiders are harmless, and their activity often fades after the mating season. But if you’re finding them more often than you’d like, or just want to be sure your home is spider-free, give us a call to learn more about our home pest control services!
Anti-Pest has proudly served Shreveport, Bossier, and Northwest Louisiana for over 75 years. Let our trusted professionals help you take the next step toward a pest-free home. Contact us today for fast, effective spider control.
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