The Itsy Bitsy Spider Can Really Do Some Harm: Venomous Spiders In Florida    

Are you afraid of spiders? If so, why? For many Americans, it doesn’t matter what kind of spider it is: if it is a spider, it could be dangerous. Do you feel this way too? We have some information you should know to help you know which spiders in Florida are dangerous and which ones are just a nuisance.

The Three Venomous Spiders In Florida

Here in Florida we only have three species of dangerous spiders, the southern black widow, the northern black widow, and the brown recluse. All are fairly easily identifiable from other species of spider.

• To spot a southern black widow, keep an eye out for a black spider with a distinct red hourglass marking on the underside of its abdomen.
• To spot a northern black widow, keep an eye out for a row of red spots down the middle of a black spiders underside.
• To spot a brown recluse, keep an eye out for a dirt sandy brown-bodied spider with a violin-shaped marking on the center of its back.

The Effects Of A Black Widow Bite

A black widow's bite directly targets the nervous system. Some immediate symptoms you may experience if bit by a black widow include severe pain, burning, and swelling. As time passes, you may also experience muscle aches, difficulty breathing, excessive sweating, a rash, swollen eyelids, and weakness or tremors that may stop you from being able to use your legs. If bitten, immediate medical attention is advised.

The Effects Of A Brown Recluse Bite

A brown recluses bite may not even hurt or leave a mark at first. For some people, being bitten feels about as bad as a bee sting does. After a day or two, however, here are some symptoms that may occur.

• Pain or redness around the bitten area.
• Fever
• Chills
• An ulcer on the area you were bitten with the skin at its center turning purple
• Nausea
• Joint Pain
• Weakness
• Seizures or coma (extremely rare)

Again if you are bitten by this spider, immediate medical attention is advised.

Steps For Keeping Dangerous Spiders Outside

Seal up gaps and cracks around your home’s exterior
Make sure window and door screens are in good repair.
If you have outdoor lights, consider replacing them with insect-resistant bulbs.
Install door sweeps on all exterior doors

How To Keep Dangerous Spiders Out For Good

Although the above steps can help in keeping dangerous spiders out of your home, they are not a perfect solution. Your best solution to keeping dangerous spiders out is to invest in professional pest control services provided by Lindsey Pest Services. Our technicians are highly trained and have the tools and treatments needed to protect your home from dangerous spider invaders. Want to learn more or schedule an appointment for your home? Contact us today.