Utah is home to over 600 species of spiders, but only a handful are commonly encountered by homeowners. Here's your guide to the 10 most common spiders in Southern Utah.
1. Black Widow (Latrodectus hesperus)
The most dangerous spider in Utah. Females are shiny black with a red hourglass marking on the underside. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas like garages, sheds, and woodpiles. Their bite requires immediate medical attention.
2. Wolf Spider
Large, hairy spiders that hunt at night. While intimidating, they're not aggressive and their bite is not dangerous to humans. They're actually beneficial as they eat other pests.
3. Hobo Spider
Brown spiders often found in basements and crawl spaces. Once thought to be highly venomous, recent research suggests their bites are not as dangerous as previously believed.
4. Yellow Sac Spider
Pale yellow spiders responsible for more bites than any other species. Their bite causes localized pain and swelling but is not medically significant for most people.
5. Desert Recluse
Related to the brown recluse but with less potent venom. Found in Southern Utah's desert areas. Bites can cause necrotic lesions in some cases.
Prevention Tips
To reduce spider populations around your home: reduce clutter and hiding spots, seal cracks and crevices, install door sweeps and window screens, reduce outdoor lighting (which attracts insects that spiders eat), and schedule regular pest control treatments.
When to Call a Professional
If you're seeing venomous spiders like Black Widows regularly, or if you have a significant spider population in your home, professional treatment is recommended. Contact Preventive Pest Control for safe, effective spider control.