World wide, there are numerous species of venomous spider, ranging from those using venom to kill prey to those who can make humans very ill.  Most commonly mentioned venomous spiders include the Black Widow Spider, the Brazilian Wandering Spider, the Brown Recluse Spider, the Funnel Web Spider, and the Hobo Spider

Black Widow Spiders

One of the most well known, feared, and loved spider species.  This species is easily recognized by the female's shiny bright body, heavily contrasted against the red hourglass on the abdomen.  They appear throughout the American Southwest, though they can appear almost anywhere in the United States.  Mortality rates at less than 1% of bite victims are associated with the Black Widow, as they inject a very small amount of poison through bites.

Brazilian Wandering Spider


This spider was named by the Guiness Book of World Records as the most venomous animal in 2007.  The spider is aggressive and highly venomous. 

Fun Fact: One component of the venom of this spider, Tx2-6, causes painful erections, which can last upwards of an hour, in male bite victims.  Tx2-6 is currently being researched as a possible treatment for erectile dysfunction.

Brown Recluse Spider

Arguably one of the most feared spiders in the world, this and ten other species of the family Loxosceles are native to the U.S.  Brown Recluse Spiders are typically found in central mid-western states, continuing southward to the Gulf of Mexico.  While bites can cause necrosis (death of tissue cells at and around the site), the vast majority of bites cause a red mark that heals without event, leaving little to no scarring.

Funnel Web Spider

This extremely aggressive spider boasts large fangs and a dark glossy body.  Native to Australia, they dig tunnels or make homes in trees, where they create "trap doors" fit with trip lines. Funnel Web Spiders  inject a large amount of venom when biting, and due to their aggressive nature, often bite multiple times.  Since the development of an anti venom in 1980, there have been no fatalities from Funnel Web bites, though there is a recorded case of a child being bitten who died less than 15 minutes later.

Hobo Spider

The bite of the Hobo Spider requires medical attention both in humans and pets, as it can result in a slow-healing lesion.  These spiders are native to Europe, but were introduced in the 1930's to the U.S.  They are currently common in the Pacific Northwest - Washington, Oregon, Utah, Montana, and Idaho.  Their habitat range appears to be growing rapidly.

Preventing pests from entering your home can be as valuable a treatment as the treatments performed by pest control companies.  By protecting your home/office, you can inhibit a wide range of infestations, and can save yourself time and money.  The following are all things that can put you and your environment at risk for pest infestations:

1.     Unsealed food

2.     Open garbage cans

3.     Gaps in plumbing pipes and/or walls

4.     Leaking roof

5.     Blocked gutters

6.     Openings in windows/door frames

7.     Improperly sealed attics/crawl spaces

8.     Plies of firewood

9.     Standing water

10.  Long grass & overgrown shrubs

11.  Leaf buildup

By avoiding such risk factors, you can greatly reduce your chances of infestation from many common pests. Keep in mind that most pests are attracted to your home by conditions that are created by you, and are easily avoidable.  Many infestations can be avoided by keeping your home clean, and your yard free of clutter and debris, but as with anything, there are always exceptions.

If you are facing an infestation in your home or office, call 1-877-757-7767 for a free consultation.  The call is free, and the information gained is priceless!

1.       Most species of spiders bite, though the majority of spiders are not poisonous, even the smallest of spider bites could cause an allergic reaction.  Spider bite symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and from spider to spider.  Bite symptoms range from a minor bite site to in extremely rare cases death.
Symptoms of a spider bite can include any or all of the following:

1. Itching
2. Rash
3. Pain at the bite site
4. Muscle pain and/or cramping
5. Fever/Increased sweating
6. Headache
7. Difficulty breathing
8. Nausea and vomiting
9. High Blood pressure
10. Anxiety or restlessness

If you think you have been bitten by a spider and are showing any signs of possible allergic reaction, go to the nearest medical facility.

So you now know how to avoid getting bitten by spiders, but how do you prevent the spiders themselves?  In a recent study, it was found that the number one fear in the world is arachnophobia, the fear of spiders.  Rather than being frightened by these insects, why not kick them off of your property?  Keep in mind that spiders can be beneficial, as they eat other bugs that van be a nuisance, however, an infestation of any insect take a negative toll on your home and your family.  Follow the steps below to assist in preventing a spider infestation in your home:
1.     Reduce Clutter – Spiders are attracted to small places where living is convenient.  By removing piles of papers, clothing, shoes, etc., you are removing some of their favorite hiding places.  By keeping clutter to a minimum, you can help reduce the number of spiders in your home.
2.     Keep Clean – Remove spider webs when you see them, and dust often.  Not having a web available will deter most spiders from laying eggs and even from living in your home altogether.
3.     Make Repairs – As with many insects that infest homes, repairing windows and screens and other cracks found in your home will help to keep the spiders out. You must pest-proof your home!
4.     Invest in Plastic – You know all of those clothes and toys you put away in case you have another baby, or so your children can have them when they have a child?  Take them out of the cardboard boxes.  Spiders love living in and around cardboard boxes.  Consider replacing them with plastic containers or totes, which will last much longer than cardboard, and won’t attract spiders.
5.     Spray Annually – Having your home treated on an annual basis by an exterminator will help with many common pests including spiders, ants, centipedes and more.  A3 Superior offers services just like this.  To read More, visit our Residential Annual Service Packages page.

1.       Have you ever found yourself accidentally face to face with a biting spider? Most of us have!  We would like to take a brief moment to inform you of the best practices for avoiding spider bites:

1. Trim, cut, or eliminate tall grass or other plants in and around outdoor areas
2. When stacking firewood or any other materials outside, try to minimize the empty space between items.
3. Wear protective clothing when stacking materials.  This should include long-sleeved shirts, long pants, boots, gloves, and even a hat.
4. Inspect or shake any clothing, shows, towels, etc. before using them.
5. Store things properly.  Items used for outdoor purposes should be stored in sealed containers, such as plastic bags.

By avoiding common mistakes and being proactive, you will easily find yourself coming face to face with fewer spiders.  If you think you have an infestation, there is always a professional waiting to assist you at A3 Superior Pest Control.  Call us today 1-877-757-PROS.

1.       If you have ever experienced a spider bite (and not developed the ability to fight crime and swing from one building to the next), you know that some bites can cause itching, swelling, and redness, all of which are very uncomfortable.  Most spider bites are harmless, however, there are a few that can cause serious illness and damage to the tissues.  We have done some research on the best methods for treating spider bites from home.
Here’s what we’ve found:
1.       ID – If at all possible, try to identify the spider.  Some bites require intense treatment, which can include anti-venom.  The identification of the spider will help determine of you can attempt to treat yourself, or if you will require medical attention.
2.       Wash – Proper cleansing of the area with antibacterial soap and water will help to prevent infection.  Even if it is a bite from a non-poisonous spider, the bite and the area surrounding it should still be washed.
3.       Ice – A combination of ice or a cold compress along with an OTC pain killer (acetaminophen or ibuprofen will work) will reduce swelling and pain.  Be sure to continue checking the bite sight regularly for signs of allergic reaction.
4.       Venomous spider bites can be very serious.  Treatment for a venomous bite should begin immediately with the washing of the affected area.  Wrap a tight bandage above the bite if it is located on an extremitie.  Do not cut off circulation! You want to slow the spread of venom, not stop blood flow completely.  If the bite is on another location, cover it with a cold cloth until you can get to the proper medical care.
5.       Go immediately to a medical facility if you know the bite is from a venomous spider.  Most of these bites will require a period of hospitalization.

*** Disclaimer - We at A3 Superior are by no means members of the medical community, nor are any of our staff medical doctors.  The information above is not medically researched, it merely lists the practices we have found to be helpful in treating spider bites.  If you think you have spider bites and require medical attention, please contact your physician.