Cellar Spiders

Cellar spiders, sometimes known as daddy longlegs spiders (not to be confused with harvestmen, which also go by the name daddy long legs) or long-bodied cellar spiders, are a common type of arachnid found in many parts of the world. They belong to the family Pholcidae, which contains over 1,500 species of spiders.

Cellar spiders are typically small to medium-sized spiders, with adults ranging from 2 to 10 mm in body length, and leg spans of up to 7 cm. They have long, slender legs that are much longer than their bodies, giving them a distinctive appearance. Their bodies are typically pale yellow, gray, or brown, and are covered in fine, silky hairs.

As their name suggests, cellar spiders are often found in dark, damp areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. They are particularly well adapted to living in human dwellings, and are commonly found in homes and buildings throughout the world. In the wild, cellar spiders can also be found in caves, under rocks, and in leaf litter.

Cellar spiders are known for their unique method of hunting. They spin loose, tangled webs that hang from ceilings or corners, and then use their long legs to detect vibrations from prey that get caught in the web. Once they detect prey, they quickly wrap it up in silk and bite it with their venomous fangs. Despite their venomous bites, cellar spiders are not considered dangerous to humans, as their venom is relatively weak and they are not aggressive.

Cellar spiders typically reproduce in the spring and summer months. Males will often approach females while they are feeding and attempt to mate with them. After mating, females will lay their eggs in small, round sacs that are attached to their webs. The eggs hatch after several weeks, and the young spiders disperse to find their own webs.

Cellar spiders can be both beneficial and problematic for humans. On the one hand, they are effective predators of other insects and can help keep pest populations under control. On the other hand, they can be a nuisance to some people, as their webs can accumulate dust and debris and may be unsightly. Additionally, some people may be allergic to their venom, although this is relatively rare.

Cellar spiders are fascinating creatures that have adapted well to living alongside humans. While they may not be the most popular house guests, they play an important role in the ecosystem and are unlikely to cause harm to people.

Cellar spiders are generally small in size compared to other spider species, with a typical body length ranging from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inch (6-10 mm). However, their long, thin legs can make them appear larger and more intimidating than they actually are. In fact, the legs of cellar spiders can range in length from 2 to 3 inches (50-75 mm), which is several times the length of their body. Cellar spiders are relatively small spiders, but their long legs and delicate appearance can make them seem larger and more noticeable in the home.

Cellar spiders can vary in color, but they are typically pale brown or gray in color. Their bodies and legs may be mottled or striped with darker brown or black markings. Some cellar spiders may also have a slight reddish or yellowish tint to their bodies. The exact coloration can depend on the species of cellar spider and the individual spider's environment. The coloration of cellar spiders helps them blend into their surroundings and avoid predators, making them well-adapted to living in dark, cluttered environments like basements and crawl spaces.

The eye pattern of a cellar spider is characterized by the presence of eight small, simple eyes arranged in two rows of four. The eyes are located on the front part of the spider's head, or cephalothorax, and are positioned in a circular pattern. The two rows of eyes are slightly curved, with the front row being slightly more arched than the back row. The eyes of cellar spiders are small and not particularly well-developed compared to some other spider species, which reflects their reliance on their long, thin legs and sensitive hairs for detecting prey and navigating their webs. The eye pattern of cellar spiders is one of their defining features and can be used to help distinguish them from other spider species.

The body of a cellar spider is long, slender, and divided into two main sections: the cephalothorax and the abdomen. The cephalothorax is the front part of the spider's body where the head and legs are located, while the abdomen is the larger, rounded back portion of the body. The cephalothorax is rounded and slightly flattened, and it is covered in a hard, protective exoskeleton. The abdomen is larger and more bulbous in shape, and it houses the spider's vital organs and reproductive structures. The entire body of the cellar spider is usually only a few millimeters wide and a few centimeters long, although their long, thin legs can make them appear larger and more intimidating than they actually are. The body shape of the cellar spider is well-suited for their lifestyle as web-spinning predators that live in tight spaces like basements and crawl spaces.

Like all spiders, cellar spiders have eight legs. However, their legs are particularly long and thin, which gives them a distinctive appearance. The length of their legs can range from 2 to 3 inches (50-75 mm), which is several times the length of their body. The legs are covered in fine hairs, which help the spiders to detect vibrations and movements in their environment. They use their legs to navigate their webs and to capture prey. The jointed structure of their legs allows them to bend and twist in a variety of directions, making them agile hunters. The long, thin legs of cellar spiders are one of their most recognizable and defining physical characteristics.

Cellar spiders are not considered dangerous to humans. While they are venomous and do have the ability to bite, their venom is relatively weak and they are not aggressive towards humans. In fact, cellar spiders are more likely to try to flee than to bite when they feel threatened.

The venom of cellar spiders is not considered medically significant, meaning that it is not harmful to humans. While the venom can cause some mild irritation and discomfort, this is typically short-lived and does not require medical treatment.

While cellar spiders may look scary to some people, they are not dangerous and do not pose a significant threat to human health or safety. In fact, they can actually be beneficial as predators of other insects and pests. If you find cellar spiders in your home or elsewhere, the best course of action is usually to simply leave them be and let them continue their work as natural pest controllers.

There are several reasons why you might have a cellar spider infestation in your home or other building. These include:

• Suitable habitat: Cellar spiders prefer dark, damp environments, and are often found in areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics. If your home provides a suitable habitat for these spiders, such as if you have a damp basement or crawl space, you may be more likely to have a cellar spider infestation.
• Easy access: Cellar spiders are adept at squeezing through small cracks and gaps in walls, floors, and ceilings. If your home has a lot of entry points, such as gaps around windows or doors, or cracks in your foundation, this may make it easier for cellar spiders to enter your home and set up webs.
• Structural issues: If your home has structural issues, such as cracks in the walls or foundation, this may make it easier for cellar spiders to enter your home and set up webs. Additionally, if you have a lot of vegetation or trees close to your home, this may provide easy access for spiders to enter through windows or doors.
• Clutter: Cellar spiders are known to build webs in cluttered areas, such as piles of boxes, old clothing, or other debris. If you have a lot of clutter in your home, this may provide a suitable habitat for cellar spiders and increase the likelihood of an infestation.
• Lack of cleaning: Cellar spiders are attracted to areas that are not regularly cleaned, such as dusty corners or cobweb-covered walls. If you do not clean your home regularly, this may make it more attractive to cellar spiders.
• Food sources: Cellar spiders are opportunistic feeders and will prey on a wide range of insects and other arthropods. If you have a lot of other insects or pests in your home, such as flies, mosquitoes, or cockroaches, this may attract cellar spiders as they seek out food sources.
• Seasonal changes: Cellar spiders tend to be more active in the spring and summer months, when temperatures and humidity levels are higher. If you notice an increase in the number of cellar spiders in your home during these months, this may be due to seasonal changes that are making your home more hospitable to these spiders.
• Light source: Cellar spiders are often attracted to light sources, such as outdoor lights or indoor lamps. If you have a lot of light sources in or around your home, this may attract cellar spiders and make it more likely that they will enter your home.
• Lack of natural predators: Cellar spiders have relatively few natural predators, which can allow their populations to grow unchecked in certain environments. If your home does not have many natural predators of spiders, such as birds or other insectivorous animals, this may make it more likely that you will have a cellar spider infestation.

Cellar spiders can be found in a variety of environments, both indoors and outdoors. Here are some of the most common places where you might find cellar spiders:

• Basements and crawl spaces: As their name suggests, cellar spiders are well-adapted to living in dark, damp environments like basements and crawl spaces. They are often found in corners, crevices, and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Attics: Cellar spiders are also frequently found in attics, where they can set up webs in rafters, insulation, and other areas.
• Garages and sheds: Cellar spiders are commonly found in garages, sheds, and other outbuildings, where they can prey on other insects and pests that may be attracted to these areas.
• Outdoors: Cellar spiders can also be found in a variety of outdoor environments, including gardens, wooded areas, and near bodies of water. They may set up webs on trees, shrubs, and other vegetation.
• Inside homes: Cellar spiders can also be found inside homes, particularly in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms where there may be a lot of other insects or food sources. They may also be found in closets, storage areas, and other cluttered spaces.

Cellar spiders are highly adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of environments. They are often found in areas that provide them with shelter, moisture, and a ready supply of food. If you are concerned about a cellar spider infestation in your home, it's a good idea to check all of the above areas carefully and look for signs of webs or spiders.

Getting rid of cellar spiders can be challenging, but there are several methods that you can try to help control their populations. Here are seven steps you can take to get rid of cellar spiders:

1. Keep your home clean and tidy: Regular cleaning can help remove potential hiding places and food sources for cellar spiders. Vacuum and sweep frequently, paying particular attention to areas where spiders are likely to hide, such as corners, basements, and crawl spaces.
2. Remove clutter: Clutter provides hiding places for spiders, so try to eliminate as much clutter as possible. Store items in sealed containers, and keep boxes off the floor to reduce hiding places.
3. Seal cracks and gaps: Seal up any cracks and gaps in walls, floors, and around windows and doors to prevent spiders from entering your home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal gaps, and repair any damaged screens.
4. Reduce lighting: Cellar spiders are attracted to light, so try to keep your home as dark as possible. Install blinds or curtains on windows to reduce the amount of light that enters your home.
5. Use sticky traps: Sticky traps can be an effective way to capture cellar spiders. Place the traps in areas where spiders are likely to hide, such as corners, basements, and crawl spaces.
6. Use natural repellents: Some natural repellents, such as peppermint oil, vinegar, and citrus, are believed to repel spiders. Spray these substances around your home to deter spiders from entering.
7. Use insecticides: If natural methods are not effective, you can use insecticides to kill spiders. Use an insecticide labeled for indoor use, and follow the instructions carefully. Spray the insecticide in areas where spiders are likely to hide, such as corners, basements, and crawl spaces.

It's important to note that while these methods can be effective in reducing the population of cellar spiders, they may not completely eliminate them. Cellar spiders are a common household pest, and their populations can be difficult to completely eradicate. If you are experiencing a severe infestation, or if you would rather somebody else get rid of the cellar spiders for you, you may need to contact a professional pest control company to help you get rid of the spiders.

Preventing cellar spider infestations is a relatively straightforward process that involves a combination of proactive measures and regular maintenance. Here are eight ways to prevent cellar spider infestations in your home:

1. Reduce moisture: Cellar spiders thrive in moist environments, so it's important to reduce moisture levels in your home as much as possible. This can be achieved by fixing any leaks or water damage, using a dehumidifier in damp areas, and making sure that there is adequate ventilation in all areas of the house.
2. Keep lights off: Cellar spiders are attracted to light sources, so it's a good idea to keep lights off when they are not in use. If you need to use lights at night, consider using yellow or amber bulbs, which are less attractive to insects and spiders.
3. Seal cracks and gaps: Cellar spiders can enter your home through even the smallest cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors. To prevent them from entering, make sure that all cracks and gaps are sealed with caulk or weatherstripping.
4. Declutter: Cluttered areas are prime spots for cellar spiders to set up webs. To prevent infestations, it's important to declutter your home regularly and keep all areas clean and free of debris.
5. Regular cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to preventing cellar spider infestations. This includes vacuuming and dusting all areas of the house, especially in corners, crevices, and other hard-to-reach areas.
6. Remove webs: If you notice any webs in your home, it's important to remove them as soon as possible. This will help to prevent spiders from returning and building new webs.
7. Use natural repellents: Some natural repellents, such as peppermint oil, vinegar, and citrus, are known to repel spiders. You can use these ingredients to make a spray that you can use in areas where spiders are likely to congregate.
8. Consult a pest control professional: If you have a severe cellar spider infestation or are unable to control the problem on your own, it's a good idea to consult a pest control professional. They can provide advice on the best ways to prevent infestations and may be able to offer more aggressive treatment options if needed.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a cellar spider infestation in your home. It's important to remember that while these spiders may look intimidating, they are not harmful to humans and can actually help control populations of other pests. If you do find cellar spiders in your home, try to avoid killing them and instead focus on preventing future infestations.