Woodlouse Spider Identification
What Do Woodlouse Spiders Look Like?
Woodlouse spiders have a distinctive appearance. They possess a reddish head and thorax with a shiny, darker abdomen. Unlike many other spider species, woodlouse spiders have large, strong jaws and fangs designed to penetrate the hard exoskeleton of woodlice. They lack the web-spinning abilities typical of many spiders and are often seen roaming on the ground. Woodlouse spiders are also known as ‘sowbugs’, ‘isopods’, and ‘roly-polies’.
Signs of a Woodlouse Spider Infestation
Signs of a woodlouse spider infestation are rare, as these spiders tend to be solitary. However, frequent sightings of these spiders in damp areas of the home, such as basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks, might indicate their presence.
Habitat, Diet, Life Cycle & Bites
Where Do Woodlouse Spiders Live?
Woodlouse spiders prefer damp environments and are commonly found under rocks, logs, and in leaf litter outdoors. Indoors, they are typically found in basements and other moist areas.
Diet of a Woodlouse Spider
Their diet consists mainly of woodlice, which is why they are often found in close proximity to their prey. They are active hunters, using their strong jaws to capture and consume woodlice.
Life Cycle of a Woodlouse Spider
The life cycle of woodlouse spiders involves the typical stages of egg, spiderling, and adult. Females lay eggs in a silk sac and protect them until they hatch. The spiderlings go through several molts before reaching maturity.
Woodlouse Spider Bites
The bite of a woodlouse spider is not harmful to humans. However, due to their mechanical fang penetration, there may be some pain but the effects are usually gone within an hour.
Are Woodlouse Spiders Dangerous?
Woodlouse spiders are not dangerous to humans. They are typically non-aggressive towards humans and their venom is not harmful.
How to Get Rid of Woodlouse Spiders?
Reducing moisture and eliminating their habitats, such as woodpiles and debris near the home, can help control woodlouse spider populations. Sealing cracks and crevices can also prevent them from entering the home. Bug out’s professional spider exterminators can help you safely remove woodlouse spiders and keep them away from your property for good. Contact us today.
Woodlouse Spider Prevention Tips
Prevent woodlouse spiders by maintaining a dry environment in and around your home. Addressing issues like leaks and dampness can make your home less attractive to both woodlouse spiders and their prey.
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FAQs
What Should I Do If I Find a Woodlouse Spider in My House?
If you find a woodlouse spider in your home, it can usually be safely captured and released outside. They are beneficial in controlling woodlice populations.
Are Woodlouse Spider Bites Harmful to Humans?
Woodlouse spider bites are not harmful to humans and are generally no more bothersome than a mild bee sting.
Why Are Woodlouse Spiders in My House?
Woodlouse spiders may enter homes in search of prey or during extreme weather conditions.
They prefer rotting vegetation and wood and are most often found in basements, under stones and boards, around doors and windows, and other areas that contain rotting wood.
Gardeners tend to welcome these arachnids in their yards, as they help them get rid of woodlice, which are notorious plant pests.
How Rare are Woodlouse Spiders?
Woodlouse spiders are not particularly rare but are often less noticed due to their nocturnal and reclusive nature.
What is the Temperament of a Woodlouse Spider?
Woodlouse spiders are generally non-aggressive towards humans and will only bite if provoked or threatened.
