Dangerous Spiders in Pennsylvania - Black Widows, Brown Recluses, and More

Dangerous Spiders Found in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to a diverse array of spider species, most of which are harmless to humans. However, there are a few venomous spider species that can be found in the state and have the potential to cause medically significant bites. Being able to identify these spiders and understanding their habits and habitats can help prevent encounters and bites.

Spiders With Medically Significant Venom Found in Pennsylvania

Here are some of the spiders with more toxic venom that inhabit parts of Pennsylvania:

• Black Widow Spider - The Northern black widow (Latrodectus variolus) is found across Pennsylvania. Females have a distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen. Their venom can cause muscle aches, nausea, and difficulty breathing, although antivenom makes deaths rare.
• Brown Recluse Spider - The brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa) is uncommon in Pennsylvania but has been found in some southern parts of the state. Their venom can cause tissue damage, ulceration, fever, and other systemic effects in some cases. Bites are rare.
• Yellow Sac Spider - The yellow sac spider (Cheiracanthium inclusum) is common across Pennsylvania. Bites typically cause mild reactions like redness and swelling, but can sometimes cause necrosis in rare cases.
• Hobo Spider - The hobo spider (Eratigena agrestis) may be found in western Pennsylvania. It was previously believed their bites could cause significant skin injuries, but this is now contested.
• Other Aggressive Spiders - Spiders like grass spiders and wolf spiders will bite defensively if mishandled or trapped against bare skin. While not medically significant, the bites are often painful.

Identifying and Avoiding Dangerous Spiders in Pennsylvania

Learning how to identify venomous spiders is the first step in avoiding bites. Some tips:

• The black widow is jet black with a reddish hourglass shape on the underside. They make messy-looking webs near the ground in wood piles, under rocks, and in abandoned buildings.
• Brown recluses have a violin-like pattern on their bodies and 6 equal-sized eyes. They do not make webs and are often found in storage areas and attics.
• Yellow sac spiders have pale yellow bodies and darker yellow heads and abdomens. They make silken retreats in bushes, gardens, and around homes.
• Hobo spiders are brown or gray with banded legs. They do not spin webs and wander at night seeking prey.

To avoid bites:

• Inspect or shake out clothing, shoes, and towels left on floors before use.
• Wear gloves, long sleeves and pants when cleaning storage spaces or clearing debris.
• Seal cracks in foundations, walls, roofs to discourage spiders entering the home.
• Avoid touching spiders you cannot positively identify.

Treating Spider Bites in Pennsylvania

If you suspect you have been bitten by a venomous spider in Pennsylvania, seek medical care right away. Treatment may include:

• Cleaning the bite area with soap and water.
• Applying an ice pack to relieve swelling.
• Elevating the affected limb if possible.
• Taking OTC pain relievers if approved by your doctor.
• Receiving antibiotics if the bite becomes infected.
• Getting antivenom treatment for serious black widow or brown recluse bites.
• Surgically debriding necrotic wounds caused by some spider bites.

Monitor any spider bite for signs of a severe reaction like excessive pain and swelling, fever, nausea, dizziness or muscle cramps. Seek emergency care if these or other concerning symptoms develop.

Preventing Spider Infestations

You can discourage venomous spiders like black widows and brown recluses from taking up residence in and around your Pennsylvania home with these proactive measures:

• Remove piles of debris, rock piles, and weak vegetation around the foundation.
• Store firewood away from the house and elevate it off the ground.
• Seal cracks and openings on the exterior of the home.
• Install screens on windows and vents to deter spiders.
• Keep basements, attics and storage areas clean and dry by fixing moisture issues.
• Use plastic sealants around door jambs, windows and siding.
• Keep plants and vegetation trimmed back from touching the home's exterior.
• Use pesticides labeled for spider control around likely entry points if necessary.

When to Call a Pest Control Expert

Contact a licensed pest management professional if you suspect a significant venomous spider infestation at your home. Qualified exterminators have specialized tools and spiders to:

• Inspect inside and outside the home to locate nests and entry points.
• Identify species to determine if they are dangerous.
• Apply targeted chemical treatments for spiders in infested areas.
• Remove webbing and egg sacs.
• Implement preventative pest control measures.

They can provide advice on sealing, cleaning and making your home less attractive to spiders seeking shelter indoors.

Key Takeaways on Venomous Spiders in Pennsylvania

• Black widows, brown recluses and yellow sac spiders with medically significant venom may be found in Pennsylvania.
• Learn how to identify dangerous spiders to avoid accidental bites.
• Control spiders by keeping your home free of clutter with good sanitation practices.
• Seal cracks and openings to discourage spiders from entering your home.
• See a doctor immediately if you suspect you were bitten by a venomous spider.

Being aware of the potential presence of venomous spiders can help Pennsylvania residents take precautions. Quick medical treatment can aid recovery in the event of an actual bite from one of these spiders. Proper identification, first aid, and control measures can greatly reduce the risks posed by spiders around the home.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.