While it might be true that spiders seem to be more abundant throughout the colder months, many people don’t know the truth about why this occurs. Most commonly, people credit the change in weather for the surplus in spiders, assuming that they come indoors to get out of the cold. Although this theory seems to make sense, temperature actually has no effect on house spiders at all.
In fact, the spiders that you see in your home during the winter didn’t “come” from anywhere — they’ve been there all along!
The spiders that you see inside your home are very different from those that take up residence outside in the elements. House spiders have been specifically adapted for living indoors, and some species have been living inside homes since way back in the days of the Roman Empire! On the other hand, outdoor spider species are adapted to the fluctuating climates and will almost never come indoors.
So, if house spiders stay inside, and outdoor spiders stay outside, why does it always seem like there are more spiders during winter?
The increase in spider sightings actually has to do with the spider life-cycle. Beginning in late summer and continuing through the cooler months is spider mating season. During this time, male spiders will be wandering about seeking their mates. That’s why you may feel that you see them more often, because they’re making themselves visible to attract a female counterpart. Once the spiders have mated the egg sacs will take a few months to mature. Typically new spiders begin to had in late winter, early spring, which can further explain the winter spider boom.
If you notice an influx in spiders creeping around your home this season it’s time to give your local pest control professional a call. If you live in Massachusetts, New Hampshire or the surrounding areas, Pest Control Unlimited is here to help you get your spider infestation under control as quickly as possible.
For more information on how we can help save your home from a spider infestation, call 888-649-9919 today!
