Spider bites are as common as their invasion, so if you are wondering about Woodlouse spider bites and if It is poisonous to humans? Read on and find out all you need to know.
Table of Contents
Identifying Woodlouse Spiders
Woodlouse spiders are common in the world of spiders. They are quite prevalent in North America.
These spiders are typically identified by their elongated, cylindrical body structures, a flat abdomen, and reddish-brown, orange, or gray color.
Furthermore, the woodlouse possesses eight eyes in two rows of four and eight legs. They can range in size from 1/4 to 3/4 of an inch long; the females are generally bigger than the males.
Woodlouse spiders get their common name from the fact that they prey on woodlice, which are small crustaceans. These spiders can bite humans if provoked, but their venom is less dangerous than that of a brown recluse spider.
Behavior
Woodlouse spiders are typically found outdoors (near wood logs, and rocks) but have been known to enter homes through cracks and crevices around doors and windows.
Consequently, they have often been considered pests when they invade homes.
They favor homes with high levels of humidity, as this is where they can find their prey. Thereby Woodlouse spiders typically infest the basement, spaces around the cupboard, and underneath floorboards in any other room.
Are Woodlouse Spiders Aggressive?
Woodlouse spiders are listed among the aggressive members of the spider family; this is especially true when provoked. The woodlouse spider will not retreat, sinking its fangs in defense.
Does a Woodlouse spider bite?
Well, the simple answer to Does a Woodlouse spider bite is, Yes. However, woodlouse spiders are not poisonous to humans and will generally only bite if they feel threatened.
The woodlouse is often mistaken for brown recluse spiders, which can lead to overreaction by people who may be unaware of the difference.
Is a Woodlouse Spider Poisonous?
Woodlouse spiders are not poisonous to humans. In fact, these arthropods are actually beneficial because they help to control the population of woodlice, which can damage crops. While they may look scary, these spiders will not harm you or your pets.
That said, though woodlouse spiders can bite people, the venom is not known to cause any medical issues. In fact, the bite is so mild that it does not require any attention.
So, if you come across a woodlouse spider and are worried about being bitten, don’t be! Stepping on it could harm you more than being bitten by it.
Why Do Woodlouse Spiders Infest Homes?
Woodlouse spiders are found in the Northeastern and Midwestern United States but are less likely to infest homes in the Pacific Northwest.
These spiders generally live outdoors but can enter homes if there is an opening. Woodlouse generally invade homes for warmth, food, and shelter; however, they prefer the outdoors. These spiders help remove pesky land crustaceans, such as woodlice and millipedes.
However, when threatened, they can bite people, which may cause some discomfort, such as abdominal cramps, intense pain, or a growing ulcer at the bite site, see a doctor right away. These could be signs of an infection.
Woodlouse Spider Bite Symptoms
Generally speaking, woodlouse spider bites are not harmful. They may have temporary pain and irritation that lasts for one to two hours.
Allergic Reactions
In some cases, spider bites, including those from woodlouse spiders, can cause allergic reactions in humans. These reactions vary in severity and can include everything from localized swelling and redness to anaphylactic shock.
While most spider bites cause only minor reactions, people with compromised immune systems or medical conditions may experience more serious reactions.
For example, an individual with an allergy to red meat might have a more severe reaction to a brown recluse spider bite.
In addition, an allergic reaction can result in other symptoms such as a growing ulcer at the bite site, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and swelling of the throat and lips.
In case you are experiencing any of these symptoms after being bitten by a woodlouse spider, seek medical attention immediately.
Woodlouse Spider Bite Treatment
If a woodlouse spider bites you, it is important to clean the wound with mild soap and water as soon as possible.
Following this, you should apply a cool compress to the nip site. This will help reduce swelling and pain.
If you are experiencing any other symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or nausea, seeking immediate medical attention is highly recommended.
Effective ways to Get Rid of a Woodlouse Spider
There are a few things you can do to get rid of woodlouse spiders in your home:
- First, reduce their prey populations by getting rid of clutter and debris.
- Next, clean up your home regularly to eliminate any food sources.
- Thirdly, as you already know, woodlouse spiders are notorious for invading homes and can enter through cracks in the walls, windows, and doors. Thereby to Keep them from entering, you need to seal off any possible entry points.
- You can also get rid of these spiders by removing their hiding places; you make it difficult for them to stay in your home.
- Another method includes pouring alcohol on it or placing it in boiling water. You can also use a pesticide that is safe for pets and children.
If these methods don’t work, you can contact a professional pest control company to help get rid of the spiders for you.
Homemade Repellent
You can also use DIY sprays to eliminate these spiders, like the following:
Essential Oils
Many different essential oils can be used to create a spider repellent.
In order to make the repellent, add seven drops of the oil to a 16 oz glass spray bottle and fill it with warm water. You can then spray it around your house, where spiders are commonly found.
The essential oils will also kill any spiders that come into contact with it, so be sure to stay away from their webs!
Additionally, Dishwashing soap is an essential oil that helps to break down the waxy outer layer of the woodlouse spider; it will make it easier to rinse the venom from your skin.
Natural Borax
A naturally occurring mineral called borax can be used as a general cleanser. It is also effective at getting rid of spiders. You can make your own all-purpose Borax spray by mixing one cup of borax with two gallons of water.
Furthermore, borax is also useful if a woodlouse spider bites you. You can dissolve two teaspoons of borax into four cups of hot water and use the solution to bathe the area; this will assist in reducing the pain and swelling.
Another Common DIY trick to get rid of the woodlouse spider involves mixing about five to six tablespoons of vinegar with approximately two teaspoons of dish soap into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture directly onto the spider to kill it.
Apple Cider
There are many different ways to make a spider repellent. One popular and natural way is to mix apple cider with pepper. This mixture is non-toxic and will help keep spiders away.
You can also apply the combination of apple cider vinegar with water (in a ratio of 1:1) and spray it into the areas where spiders have been spotted. The smell will deter them, and the vinegar will kill them.
Furthermore, you can keep pests away by respraying your apple cider vinegar after a few days. The vinegar will disturb their environment and force them to relocate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Woodlouse spiders are not harmful to humans or pets. In fact, they are often considered beneficial because they help to control the population of woodlice.
While their bites may be painful and itchy, they are not poisonous. If you are bitten, make sure to clean the wound and see a doctor if you experience any symptoms.
