Pest Library
Spiders
Most spiders around Southwest Florida homes are harmless and even help keep other insect populations down, but large numbers indoors — or venomous species like black widows and brown recluses — are still worth taking seriously. Spiders go where the food is, so a heavy spider population usually points to plenty of other insects nearby for them to feed on. They commonly set up in eaves, garages, sheds, woodpiles, and other quiet, undisturbed corners around a property.
About Spiders
Most spiders around Southwest Florida homes are harmless and even help keep other insect populations down, but large numbers indoors — or venomous species like black widows and brown recluses — are still worth taking seriously. Spiders go where the food is, so a heavy spider population usually points to plenty of other insects nearby for them to feed on. They commonly set up in eaves, garages, sheds, woodpiles, and other quiet, undisturbed corners around a property.
Signs of Spiders Infestation
- Webs building up in eaves, corners, garages, sheds, or window wells
- Egg sacs tucked into cracks, crevices, or storage areas
- A noticeable increase in other insects that spiders would feed on
- Spider sightings indoors, especially in basements, closets, or rarely disturbed spaces
- Bites or welts, which should be checked by a doctor if a venomous species is suspected
Common Spiders Found in Southwest Florida
Not sure what you're looking at? Here's a quick guide to the spiders most often seen around SWFL homes and yards.
Black Widow
VenomousShiny black body with a red hourglass marking on the underside of the abdomen. Bites can cause muscle pain and cramping — seek medical attention if bitten.
Brown Recluse
VenomousUncommon in Florida but still found here. Dusty brown with a darker violin-shaped marking on the back and six eyes instead of eight. Bites can cause skin and tissue damage.
Wolf Spider
HarmlessLarge, hairy, and fast-moving, often mistaken for something dangerous because of its size. Doesn't spin webs — hunts on the ground instead. Not aggressive toward people.
Banana Spider
HarmlessAlso called the golden silk orb-weaver. Yellow-and-black banded legs and large golden webs strung between trees and shrubs outdoors. Common sight in SWFL yards.
Huntsman Spider
HarmlessA large, flat-bodied spider with a long leg span, often startling because of its size and speed. Usually found in garages, sheds, or under bark — not dangerous to people.
Regal Jumping Spider
HarmlessSmall and fuzzy with iridescent green fangs and excellent eyesight. Hunts by jumping on prey rather than spinning webs. One of Florida's most recognizable, harmless spiders.
Our Treatment Approach
Effective spider control starts with removing existing webs and egg sacs from common harborage areas — eaves, garages, sheds, and entry points — followed by a residual treatment around the exterior perimeter to discourage spiders from rebuilding. Because spiders follow their food source, reducing the overall insect population around the home is a key part of keeping numbers down long-term. Ongoing treatment as part of a regular service plan helps manage spiders that re-enter from surrounding vegetation and structures.
Ready to get rid of spiders for good? See our spider control page for full details.
Prevention Tips
- Clear webs and egg sacs regularly instead of letting them establish
- Keep woodpiles, storage boxes, and clutter away from the house and up off the ground
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility entry points
- Reduce outdoor lighting near entry points, which attracts the insects spiders feed on
- Keep vegetation trimmed back from the foundation and exterior walls
Spiders FAQs
Are the spiders in Southwest Florida dangerous?
Most spiders found around local homes are harmless, but venomous species like black widows and brown recluses do live in our area, so any large or recurring spider activity is worth having a professional assess.
Why do I suddenly have so many spiders?
Spiders go where the food is — a large spider population usually means there are plenty of other insects around your home for them to feed on, which is part of what a treatment plan addresses.
Where do spiders usually hide indoors?
Basements, closets, garages, and other quiet, rarely disturbed spaces are the most common indoor hiding spots, along with corners and eaves outdoors.
Will treatment get rid of spiders for good?
Spiders can re-enter from surrounding vegetation and structures, so ongoing treatment as part of a regular pest control plan is the best way to keep numbers consistently low.