Texas has many different spider species. Most are not dangerous, but some may look scary or have venom that can be harmful. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common spiders found in Texas.
What is the most common spider in Texas?
The most common spider species in Texas is the Southern House Spider (Kukulcania hibernalis). This spider is often found in and around homes, especially in dark and sheltered areas like attics, basements, and garages. The Southern House Spider is safe for humans and eats insects, which helps control pests on your property.
What is the Texas brown spider with a big abdomen?
The spider called the “Texas brown spider with a big belly” is probably the Texas Brown Tarantula. These large, hairy spiders are one of the largest tarantula species in North America. While their appearance can be intimidating, Texas Brown Tarantulas are generally docile and non-aggressive towards humans. Their venom is relatively mild and poses little threat to people.
Are there poisonous spiders in Texas?
Some spiders in Texas are venomous, but they usually don’t attack and rarely harm people. Two notable poisonous spiders found in the state are the Black Widow (Latrodectus spp.) and the Brown Recluse (Loxosceles spp.).
- Black Widow: They are black with a red hourglass shape on their abdomen. They like dark places such as woodpiles, sheds, and garages. Their venom contains neurotoxins that can cause pain and discomfort, especially in children, the elderly, or individuals with weakened immune systems. Seek medical attention if bitten.
- Brown Recluse: Brown recluse spiders have a characteristic violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax. While they are shy and reclusive, their venom can cause tissue necrosis in some cases. Bites may lead to an open, ulcerating wound that requires medical attention. It’s essential to identify and avoid contact with brown recluses.
What are the big brown and black spiders in Texas?
The “big brown and black spiders” in Texas could refer to several species, but two common ones are:
- Wolf Spiders: Wolf spiders (Lycosidae family) are large and often have brown or dark-colored bodies with distinctive eye patterns. They are active hunters that don’t spin webs to catch prey. Wolf spider bites might cause mild discomfort, but they are not considered dangerous.
- Fishing Spiders: Fishing spiders (Dolomedes spp.) are another large spider species found near water sources in Texas. They are excellent swimmers and are often mistaken for wolf spiders due to their similar appearance. Like wolf spiders, fishing spiders are not considered harmful to humans.
Conclusion:
Understanding the common spiders in Texas is essential for distinguishing harmless species from potentially venomous ones. While most spiders encountered in the state are not dangerous to humans and play a role in managing insect populations, it’s crucial to exercise caution and avoid direct contact.
If you’re unsure about a spider’s identity seek advice from the experts at 855Bugs.
