Garden spiders are common pests across the US, and we all know them by their massive, circular webs that they like to set up in our yards. Let’s take a look at this species and everything you need to know about it.
Appearance
While there are several species of spiders that can be referred to as garden spiders, the moniker “garden spider” usually refers to the Argiope aurantia species, also known as the corn spider, writing spider, or banded garden spider. The female of the species is quite distinctive, with legs that can reach up to three inches in length when they are mature, and with abdomens that have a bright yellow and shiny black coloration. The males are not as flashy or as big as the females, often going unnoticed during an infestation.
Characteristics
Garden spiders are known for their sprawling webs, which can reach up to two feet in radius. The females will usually build much larger webs than the males, because these webs will supply newborn garden spiders with food. One of the distinguishing factors of this species is that the spiders will sit in the center of the web, and when you have a fairly big, yellow and black spider on a background of greenery, it will stand out. It’s also important to note that a single web can be used for months with proper maintenance.
Are garden spiders dangerous?
Garden spiders may have a threatening appearance, but they are not very dangerous. They do not have a powerful venom, and a bite results in mild symptoms of redness and swelling, with a pain that is similar to that of a bee sting. They are also not aggressive, and will tend to avoid people.
Control
To control garden spider infestations, a pro will use residual insecticides to create areas that are inaccessible to the spiders, after he has removed all the webs and any spiders that are out in the open. Baits may also be used to prevent future infestations before they even have the chance to happen. These baits work by drawing in any spiders that enter the area, and the spiders will be poisoned and die before they have a chance to set up a web.
If you have any questions about garden spiders, or if there is a garden spider infestation on your property that needs to be removed, contact us today.