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Ground
Spider
Characteristics –
Size: These spiders are small, with a body that is usually less than
1/2-inch in length.
Color: Color varies, but most species are brown. Some have bright
orange or red markings.
Behavior –
Ground spiders are a widely varied group. A few species are commonly associated
with building invasions, especially the Parsons spider which is recognized by
the cross-like whitish marking on its abdomen. Ground spiders are hunting
spiders; they do not build webs, but rather chase down their prey. Most species
are night hunters but some are active during the day.
Habitat – These spiders live outside beneath stones and logs
and within leaf litter, mulch and heavy ground covering such as ivy. Indoors,
they may be found scurrying along baseboards and hiding beneath furniture and
appliances.
Tips for Control – Ground spiders require few treatments
indoors to control, although an exterior foundation treatment may be necessary
in those rare cases where these spiders regularly invade homes. Placement of
sticky insect traps inside your home behind furniture and near doorways may
capture many spiders as they enter. The following tips may be helpful in
reducing the number of spiders around the home:
 | Remove or limit heavy, ground-covering vegetation near the building.
| Seal cracks and holes in the building’s exterior.
| Install tight fitting screens on all attic and foundation vents.
| Seal holes around pipes indoors, especially those plumbing lines leading
from basements and crawl spaces, to prevent spiders from entering your home. |
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