New York has several native spiders and many of them are right in your backyard. Out of hundreds of types of spiders, most are harmless. Each spider is very different, but it only takes minimum knowledge to identify each species.
- Yellow Sac Spiders
These spiders are usually a yellowish color with large fangs. They are easy to spot because they contrast leaf litter. This is one of a few dangerous spiders that reside in New York. The yellow sac spiders can also be problematic for car owners because they are attracted to the smell of gasoline and can build their webs in fuel canisters.
- Wolf Spiders
These spiders are slightly furry, brown or grey, and they run after their prey. These spiders are found in areas of high humidity, commonly rivers, lakes or sewers. This spider species tends to live most of its life in seclusion and only meets other spiders during mating season.
- Crab Spiders
This species of spider likes to live on and around fragrant plants. It can be recognized by its white or yellow body. With the ability to move sideways, the spider resembles crabs. Females are often larger than males and tend not to travel nearly as far as males do.
- Jumping Spiders
This spider is known for the bands on its legs that run along its body. This spider is recognized by its multiple colors, often a combination of green, white, black and yellow. Female spiders are known for having a white face which makes recognition easier. These spiders are found often on ivy and are generally considered to be beneficial.
- Grey Cross Spider
These spiders are considered urban spiders and are rarely seen in nature. They prefer dry and lit areas in the city, like under bridges, where they await prey. These spiders weave webs and do not travel far from their ideal habitat. They hide during the day and come out at night when there is a chance of prey attracted to lightbulbs they nest around.
If you would like to learn more about spider control options for your home or business, please contact us for a free inspection. We offer residential pest control and commercial pest control for the greater Capital District area including Albany, Schenectady, Saratoga and Rensselaer Counties.