How to Identify and Prevent Common Spiders in the Phoenix AZ Area

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Spiders are one of the most abundant pests that homeowners have to deal with all year round across the country. In the Phoenix, AZ area, the most common types of spiders that may be in your home or business are black widow spiders, brown recluse spiders, wolf spiders, and Southern house spiders. This guide will help you identify these spiders and provide prevention tips that you can use on your own.

Black Widow Spiders in Arizona

The black widow spider is arguably the most well-known and feared spider in the United States. Believe it or not, they aren’t a problem that’s unique to the Phoenix, AZ, area. Black widow spiders exist throughout the country with widespread infestations. Do you think you’ve found a black widow spider in your house?

Females are approximately 1 – 1 3/4″ across
Females are black with distinctive red hourglass mark on abdomen
Males are smaller and harmless
They live alone within large webs in dark, low-lying areas such as garages, sheds, wood piles, and dark closets.

It’s easy to spot the females from afar, which is what we suggest that you do. Black widow spiders are feared for a reason. Along with the brown recluse spider, the black widow spider is venomous and abundant. Getting bit by a black widow is cause for concern. Its venom can cause muscle cramps, vomiting, severe pain around the bite mark, breathing troubles, and swelling. Black widow spider bites can be fatal, though it’s extremely rare. Seek medical attention if you think you’ve been bitten by a black widow.

Wolf Spiders in Arizona

Because they are master hunters, wolf spiders will hide in places such as under chairs and tables when in the home. If they wander indoors, they will likely remain indoors due to the lack of competition and potential abundance of nutrients. You will know that you have wolf spiders in your home when you see them.

Female wolf spiders can be 1 1/2″ or more across; males are smaller
Very large and move quickly
Common places to find wolf spiders around your home include on or under wood piles, and stones, and on the ground floor of homes frequently hiding under furniture and other covered areas.

Wolf spiders that are found indoors have likely wandered in by mistake. They prefer to live outdoors in places where they can hide until they become active at night. Some even create tunnels in the ground or take over empty tunnels created by other animals as a place for their retreat. Other wolf spiders do not live in tunnels but instead, wander around.

Wolf spider bites are no immediate cause for concern. The pain is said to be similar to that of a bee sting. The skin around the bite will display redness and swelling. Although they are technically venomous, wolf spider venom is not strong enough to harm humans – most of the time. Some people are allergic to spider bites and can experience more severe symptoms. If you experience an allergic reaction or other severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Brown Recluse Spiders in Arizona

Brown recluse spiders are another dangerous type of spider that can live in homes and commercial structures throughout the Valley. Brown recluse spiders do not want to be found, so they do not actively seek out interactions with humans. If you find a brown recluse spider in your home, do not handle them as they are venomous and highly dangerous.

Approximately 1 – 1 1/2″ across
Light brown/tan coloring with black “violin” marking on back
Solitary nature
Creates webs in undisturbed areas such as attics, amongst clutter, sheds, and leaf litter

If you are bitten by a brown recluse spider, it might not even hurt. Marks show up within a few days after the bite has occurred, as the venom begins destroying tissue during a process called necrosis. The venom can also penetrate deeper into the tissues, affecting fat and muscles. Often, the bite of a brown recluse spider will leave a crater-like scar. If you’ve been bitten by a brown recluse spider, seek medical attention.

Southern House Spider in Arizona

A common spider that dwells in many Phoenix area households is appropriately named the “Southern house spider.” Commonly mistaken for a brown recluse spider, house spiders are about the same size but much less dangerous.

Approximately 1 – 1 1/2″ across
Light brown to tan color
No violin mark on back

If they find their way indoors, common living spaces are tucked away in small cracks and crevices, among clutter, and secluded corners. They are especially prevalent in older buildings in the Phoenix area due to the vulnerabilities that exist in aging structures.

How Does SOS Exterminating Get Rid of Spiders?

SOS Exterminating can get rid of the spiders in your home with our specialized spider control services.

Call us or fill out the form on this page to set up a free spider inspection at your home!