Spiders
Spiders are a common concern for homeowners across Southern California. While most are harmless and even help control other pests, certain species such as the black widow can pose a health risk. At Disinfest Pest Control, spider control is included in our Routine Service Plan, which also targets the insects spiders feed on. By reducing their food sources, we naturally lower spider activity around your home.
Our Approach to Spider Control
Since spiders feed on other insects, our first step is reducing their food supply. Our Routine Service Plan includes treatments that target ants, crickets, flies, and other common spider prey.
We also:
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Remove accessible webs during service visits
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Apply targeted treatments to spider harborages
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Inspect for black widow activity in high-risk areas
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Offer recommendations for reducing clutter and improving sanitation
Signs of a Spider Problem
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Webs in corners of windows, doorways, eaves, or near outdoor lighting
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Egg sacs, which are small silk-wrapped balls attached to webs or hidden in sheltered spots
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Frequent sightings of live spiders indoors or in high-traffic outdoor areas
Prevention Tips for Homeowners
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Reduce outdoor lighting at night or switch to yellow bug bulbs to attract fewer insects
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Keep vegetation trimmed away from structures
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Seal cracks, gaps, and entry points around doors and windows
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Store items off the ground and away from walls, especially in garages and sheds
With regular pest control, spider populations can be kept to a minimum and the occasional web will not turn into a full-blown infestation.
Did You Know?
California does not have established populations of brown recluse spiders. Many spiders are mistaken for them, but the brown recluse is not native to our state and encounters here are
extremely rare.
Our Most Common Concern
The black widow is the primary medically significant spider found in our area.
Appearance: Shiny black body, round abdomen, with a red or orange hourglass marking on the underside.
Web: Messy, irregular, and strong, often built close to the ground in dark, undisturbed areas such as under patio furniture, inside sheds, behind stored items, or along fence lines.
Behavior: Shy by nature but will bite if threatened. Bites can cause muscle aches, nausea, and other symptoms, requiring medical attention in some cases.
Other Spiders You Might See
While less dangerous than black widows, you may also notice:
Orb weavers: Large, colorful spiders that build big, circular webs, often between trees or over walkways.
Cellar spiders (Daddy Longlegs): Long, thin legs, commonly found in garages and basements.
Jumping spiders: Small, compact spiders that move in quick bursts and often appear curious.
These spiders are not considered dangerous to humans and rarely bite, preferring to avoid contact whenever possible.
The Black Widow
Why Spiders Are Common Here
Southern California’s warm climate provides ideal conditions for both spiders and the insects they hunt. Outdoor lighting, sheltered spaces, and plentiful prey make areas around homes attractive to these eight-legged predators.