Winter Spiders: Facts vs Myths – Brown Recluse & Black Widow ID and Safe Control in Lebanon, MO

🕸️ Common Myths About Winter Spiders

Myth 1: Spiders die off when it’s cold.
Fact: Many spiders, including the brown recluse, survive by nesting indoors or in sheltered areas like attics and basements.

Myth 2: All spiders you see inside are venomous.
Fact: Most indoor spiders are harmless. Only a few species in Missouri, such as the black widow and brown recluse, require caution.

Myth 3: Spider bites happen often.
Fact: Actual bites are rare — spiders typically avoid humans and only bite when trapped or threatened.

Identifying the Brown Recluse

The brown recluse is one of the most misunderstood spiders in Missouri. Here’s how to recognize one correctly:

• Light to medium brown color with a distinctive violin-shaped marking on its back.
• About the size of a quarter, including legs.
• Six eyes arranged in three pairs — a unique feature among spiders.
• Prefers dark, dry, and undisturbed areas such as closets, basements, and storage boxes.

Though recluse bites can cause irritation or necrosis, they’re not aggressive. If bitten, clean the area, seek medical advice, and contact a professional for inspection.

Recognizing the Black Widow

Another spider that may appear during Lebanon’s cooler months is the black widow. Here’s what to look for:

• Shiny black body with a bright red hourglass marking on the underside.
• Tends to hide in garages, sheds, and crawl spaces.
• Builds messy, irregular webs in secluded corners.
• Non-aggressive unless disturbed — bites are rare but can cause muscle pain and nausea.

If you suspect black widows are present, it’s safest to avoid DIY treatments and let a professional pest control team handle it.

Safe and Effective Spider Control Tips

• Seal cracks, gaps, and entry points around windows, doors, and foundations.
• Store firewood and boxes away from the home’s foundation.
• Keep basements and garages clutter-free.
• Use sticky traps to monitor spider activity.
• Schedule professional pest control service during the winter for preventive protection.

Professional Spider Control in Lebanon, MO

At Plank Termite & Pest Control, we specialize in safe, eco-friendly spider treatments tailored Perimeter Guard Plans for homes and businesses across Lebanon. Our experienced technicians identify species accurately and apply targeted treatments that keep your space spider-free without putting your family or pets at risk.