Winter Spiders: Myths, Facts & Safe Control for Brown Recluse & Black Widow in Lake of the Ozark

Even when the temperatures drop around Lake of the Ozarks, some spiders don’t disappear — they move in with you. While most are harmless, venomous spiders like the brown recluse and black widow are known to seek shelter inside homes, sheds, and garages during winter. Let’s clear up some common myths and discuss how to safely handle these unwanted guests.

Common Myths About Winter Spiders

Myth 1: Spiders die off when it gets cold.
Fact: Spiders are resilient. Many species survive winter by nesting indoors or in sheltered outdoor areas like firewood stacks or crawl spaces.

Myth 2: Brown recluse spiders only live outdoors.
Fact: In Missouri, the brown recluse often lives inside homes, hiding in dark, quiet spaces such as attics, basements, and closets.

Myth 3: All spider bites are dangerous.
Fact: Most spiders can’t even pierce human skin. Only a handful, like the brown recluse or black widow, are medically significant — and even then, bites are rare.

Identifying a Brown Recluse

The brown recluse is one of the most recognizable spiders in Missouri. Here’s how to confirm its identity:

• Light to medium brown color with a dark violin-shaped mark on the back.
• Six eyes arranged in pairs — an uncommon feature among spiders.
• About ¼ to ½ inch in body length (roughly the size of a quarter with legs extended).
• Prefers hidden areas such as storage boxes, behind furniture, and wall voids.

Though recluse bites can cause irritation or localized tissue damage, these spiders are not aggressive and only bite when pressed or disturbed.

Identifying a Black Widow

The black widow is another species that commonly appears in Lake of the Ozarks homes during winter months. Recognize them by:

• Shiny black body with a distinctive red hourglass on the underside.
• Messy, tangled webs built in secluded areas like sheds, crawl spaces, and woodpiles.
• Tendency to stay hidden unless provoked.

Black widow bites can cause pain, muscle cramps, or nausea, but serious complications are extremely rare with prompt treatment.

Winter Spider Prevention Tips

Keep your home spider-free this winter with these proven steps:

• Seal cracks, gaps, and entry points around doors, vents, and foundations.
• Keep stored items off the floor and use sealed containers instead of cardboard boxes.
• Install door sweeps and repair torn screens.
• Shake out clothing and shoes that have been in storage.
• Schedule a professional pest control service to inspect and treat problem areas.

Professional Spider Control in Lake of the Ozarks, MO

At Plank Termite & Pest Control, we understand how unsettling spider sightings can be — especially when venomous species are involved. Our licensed technicians offer safe, targeted treatments to eliminate brown recluse and black widow infestations without disrupting your household. We also provide preventive maintenance to keep your home protected all year long.

📞 Contact Plank Termite & Pest Control Today

Don’t let winter spiders take over your home. Trust the experts at Plank Termite & Pest Control for reliable, eco-friendly spider control in Lake of the Ozarks, MO. Call 573-368-3333 or schedule online for your winter pest treatment today!