If the idea of spiders in Utah makes your skin crawl, you’re not alone. While most are harmless, a few species can pose risks, especially to young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Knowing which spiders to watch out for can help you take the necessary steps to keep them out of your home. If you’re concerned about a spider problem, A-1 Exterminators offers expert spider control in Salt Lake City and Northern Utah.
Here are four spiders you’ll want to avoid in Utah.
Hobo Spider
The hobo spider is common in Utah and frequently enters homes seeking shelter.
Identification: These spiders have long legs and a brown body and often build funnel-shaped webs in basements, window wells, and along foundations. They are poor climbers and tend to stay near ground level.
Bite Concerns: Hobo spiders were once thought to cause necrotic bites, but recent studies show their venom is not as harmful as previously believed. While their bites may cause mild blistering or irritation, they are not medically significant.
Prevention Tips:
- Use sticky traps along baseboards where they may travel.
- Seal cracks and gaps around your home’s foundation.
- Keep basements and crawl spaces dry and clutter-free.
Yellow Sac Spider
Yellow sac spiders get their name from the tiny silk sacs they build in corners of walls, ceilings, and outdoor structures.
Identification: These spiders are pale yellow or tan and are skilled climbers. They prefer outdoor environments but may enter homes in colder months.
Bite Concerns: Their bites can cause pain, redness, and swelling and are often mistaken for a brown recluse bite. While not deadly, some bites can lead to secondary infections.
Prevention Tips:
- Minimize clutter in attics, garages, and storage areas.
- Reduce outdoor lighting, as it attracts the insects they prey on.
- Seal minor entry points around doors, windows, and vents.
Wolf Spider
The wolf spider is one of the most intimidating-looking spiders in Utah due to its size and speed.
Identification: Large and hairy wolf spiders do not spin webs but hunt their prey by chasing it down. They are often found in gardens, fields, basements, and garages, especially in the fall.
Bite Concerns: While not deadly, their strong fangs can cause painful bites with swelling that may last up to 10 days. Clean the wound and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if bitten.
Prevention Tips:
- Use weather stripping to close gaps under doors.
- Keep doors and windows properly sealed.
- Reduce outdoor debris and keep landscaping well-trimmed.
Black Widow
The black widow is the most dangerous spider in Utah due to its highly venomous bite.
Identification: Black widows, recognized by their shiny black bodies and distinct red hourglass markings on the abdomen, build strong, sticky webs in dark, undisturbed areas like garages, woodpiles, sheds, and basements.
Bite Concerns: Their venom can cause severe pain, muscle cramps, nausea, and difficulty breathing. While fatalities are rare, young children, the elderly, and individuals with health conditions are at higher risk of complications. Seek medical attention immediately if bitten.
Prevention Tips:
- Use a flashlight when entering dark areas like sheds or garages.
- Reduce outdoor clutter and store firewood away from the house.
- Check shoes, gloves, and stored items before bringing them inside.
Keep Dangerous Spiders Out of Your Home
No one wants to deal with venomous spiders lurking in their homes, but taking preventative steps can significantly reduce the risk of infestation.
If you’re noticing more spiders than usual or want to ensure your home stays spider-free, call A-1 Exterminators. Our team specializes in safe, effective spider control in Salt Lake City and Northern Utah, using eco-friendly treatments to eliminate spiders and prevent them from returning. Call us today at (801) 968-3370 to schedule a spider inspection or learn more about our spider spray treatments to keep your home safe.
