Spiders

Spiders are one of the most common pests encountered in Michigan homes. While most spiders are not dangerous, their presence indoors is usually a sign of other insect activity or favorable conditions such as entry points, clutter, or moisture. Effective spider control focuses on reducing harborage areas, controlling food sources, and preventing entry rather than simply removing visible spiders.

Below are the most common spider species found in Michigan homes.

Common House Spiders

Overview
Common house spiders are the most frequently encountered spiders indoors and are generally considered nuisance pests.

Behavior
They build messy, irregular webs in corners, basements, closets, garages, and along ceiling lines. These spiders prefer undisturbed areas and remain in the same location for long periods.

How to Identify Them
Common house spiders are small to medium in size and vary in color from tan to dark brown. They are typically found in webs rather than actively roaming.

Why They’re a Pest
While harmless, their webs collect dust and insects and create an unclean appearance, especially around ceilings, corners, and windows.

Wolf Spiders

Overview
Wolf spiders are large, fast-moving spiders that often alarm homeowners due to their size and sudden appearance.

Behavior
Unlike web-building spiders, wolf spiders actively hunt insects. They typically live outdoors but may wander indoors, especially in basements or ground-level areas.

How to Identify Them
Wolf spiders are large, brown or gray, with long legs and distinct body markings. They do not build webs and are usually seen running across floors.

Why They’re a Pest
Their size and speed can be startling, and repeated sightings may indicate exterior conditions that allow easy entry into the home.

Cellar Spiders (Daddy Longlegs)

Overview
Cellar spiders are commonly found in basements and lower-level areas of homes.

Behavior
They build loose webs in corners, crawlspaces, and unfinished basements. They prefer damp, undisturbed environments and tend to stay near their webs.

How to Identify Them
Cellar spiders have very long, thin legs and small, pale bodies. Their webs are often found near ceilings or in basement corners.

Why They’re a Pest
Although harmless, their webs can accumulate in large numbers and contribute to a cluttered, neglected appearance.

Jumping Spiders

Overview
Jumping spiders are small, active spiders commonly found near windows and well-lit areas.

Behavior
They do not build webs to catch prey and instead rely on jumping to hunt insects. They are most active during the day.

How to Identify Them
Jumping spiders are compact, often black or dark brown, with noticeable front-facing eyes. Their movements are quick and erratic.

Why They’re a Pest
They frequently appear near windows and doors, making them highly visible and bothersome despite their small size.

Orb Weaver Spiders

Overview
Orb weaver spiders are large outdoor spiders commonly found around the exterior of homes.

Behavior
They build large, symmetrical webs around lights, eaves, doorways, and landscaping. They are most active in late summer and fall.

How to Identify Them
Orb weavers are often brightly colored or patterned with large, rounded abdomens. Their webs are easily recognized by their circular shape.

Why They’re a Pest
Their large webs can block walkways and entrances, and spiders may relocate closer to the home when exterior lighting attracts insects.

Don’t See the Spider You’re Dealing With?

Michigan is home to many spider species, most of which are harmless but still unwanted indoors. If you’re experiencing ongoing spider activity or aren’t sure what type you’re seeing, use the contact form and we’ll help identify the issue and recommend the appropriate solution.