Spiders are a bug so scary to some people that it has inspired its own phobia-"arachnophobia". Although primal instincts tell us to be afraid, they are fascinating creatures. That doesn’t mean they should be living in your house or business though. Learning more about them, including which species we have locally and if they can be dangerous, helps separate the fact from the fiction.

Here in Mundelein, they are a common part of life. In fact, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health, there are over 500 species in the state. While the vast majority you’ll encounter around your home are more creepy than harmful, it is essential to be aware of at least two potentially dangerous species found in Illinois:

• Black Widow Spiders, or Lactrodectus, are around the size of a paperclip with a telltale red hourglass marking on their abdomens. While they have the potential to cause serious health problems when biting humans, they are non-aggressive and generally only bite when acting in self-defense. They usually prefer dark, undisturbed places like woodpiles, inside shoes, and corners of areas like basements and garages.

• The Brown Recluse is known for its three pairs of eyes on top of its head and the faint violin shape on its back.  They can grow up to 3/4th of an inch and can be found indoors and out. Some of their favorite spots are secluded and poorly lit areas like crawlspaces, attics, and closets.

The good news is that you’re far more likely to run into one of the other species. Domestic House, Cellar, Orb Weaver, and Wolf spiders are the most common. While they can invade your home and be a significant nuisance, their bites are not usually associated with considerable health risks. So, while most local spiders are not a mortal threat to humans, staying informed about the health issues related to bites is crucial. If you’re bitten, you may experience localized pain, redness, and swelling near the bite, which subsides from anywhere within a few hours to a few days. Those with allergies to stinging insects may need medical attention immediately.

Similarly, a Black Widow bite can have serious repercussions. Although rarely fatal (primarily occurring in the young or elderly), they have the potential to cause intense pain, muscle cramping, and even cause trouble breathing. Black Widows should be professionally removed from the home to avoid potential health risks.

They are, in general, amazing creatures. Some can see light spectrums not accessible to humans, like UVA and UVB. Others have adapted so that they can fish for their prey. Did you know that spider web silk, as compared to steel by weight, would be incredibly stronger? They have even been the inspiration for a dance called the Tarantella, which has been performed in Italy since the 17th century. They may be the cause of the common phobia, but they are most certainly not boring.

If you’ve noticed an infestation in your home or business, Westshore Pest Control would love to help. We are the leading pest control service in Mundelein and the surrounding areas. Contact us today for an estimate.