Guide to Large Spider Species Found in New Hampshire
New Hampshire's forests, fields, and wetlands are home to a diverse array of spiders. While the majority of spiders living in NH are not considered dangerous to humans, there are a few large spider species that can give a painful bite and may cause concern for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Wolf Spiders
One of the most common large spiders found in New Hampshire is the wolf spider. Over 125 species of wolf spiders exist in the United States, and several large species measuring over 1 inch in body length reside in NH.
Wolf spiders can be identified by their hairy bodies, long robust legs, and prominent eyes. They are usually brown, grey, or black in color with geometric patterns. While their bites are venomous, the venom is not medically significant for humans.
Fishing Spiders
Fishing spiders belong to the Dolomedes genus and get their name from their tendency to hunt above water. Several Dolomedes species can be found near the edges of ponds, streams, and wetlands in NH.
Fishing spiders have an oval-shaped body, muted brown and grey colors, and reach sizes over 1 inch. Their legs are covered in short dense hairs that allow them to sprint across water surfaces. If provoked, they may bite in defense.
Parson Spiders
The parson spider is a type of funnel weaver spider found across New Hampshire lawns, gardens, and wooded areas. They construct funnel-shaped webs attached to vegetation and pounce on prey that enters the web.
Parson spiders have a brown body with white and black markings. Their legspan can reach over 2 inches. Though rarely aggressive, parson spiders will bite if touched or handled.
Grass Spiders
Grass spiders belong to the Agelenopsis genus and build large horizontal funnel webs in fields and meadows throughout NH. The webs often stretch between stalks of tall grass and vegetation.
These spiders have striped or spotted brown legs and grow over 1 inch in size. Bites typically only cause mild pain and swelling similar to a bee sting.
Cellar Spiders
Cellar spiders can be spotted year-round inside NH homes, hanging upside down in messy, asymmetric webs in basements and crawl spaces. They have extremely long, thin legs, small bodies, and range from 0.5 - 1 inch length.
Their bites are generally harmless, though may cause mild pain and itching for a short time. Cellar spiders help control household pests like cockroaches and ants.
Spider Bite Symptoms
Most spider bites only result in minor effects like pain, redness, inflammation, and itching near the bite site. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a week or two.
In rare cases, certain large spider bites can trigger more whole-body reactions like:
- Nausea, vomiting, or fever
- Wooziness or chills
- Muscle cramps or joint pain
- Rash or hives
Seek prompt medical care if you experience severe side effects following a spider bite.
Avoiding Spider Bites
You can reduce chances of being bitten using these spider bite prevention tips:
Clear Away Webs
Inspect your home's corners, crevices, and entry points for spider webs. Safely remove webs using gloves, a broom, vacuum, or chemical sprays. This eliminates spider habitats.
Seal Up Access Points
Caulk cracks in your home's windows, walls, roof, and foundation. Install weather stripping on doors and door sweeps on garage entries. This blocks spiders from sneaking inside.
Manage Lighting
Outdoor floodlights, porch lights, and landscape lighting attracts insects which in turn lures spiders. Replace standard bulbs with yellow "bug bulbs" to deter spiders and bugs.
Reduce Clutter
Clear brush, woodpiles, rock piles, and general debris away from your home's perimeter. Store infrequently used items in sealed bins. This eliminates ideal spider hiding and nesting spots.
Keep Your Yard Tidy
Mow lawns, weed gardens, rake leaves, and trim vegetation often. This exposes spiders and makes the environment less hospitable to them.
Exercising caution around wood and rock piles when cleaning up debris can help prevent accidental bites. Wear protective clothing like gloves and long sleeves when working in areas that may harbor spiders.
Spider Bite Treatment
If you do experience a spider bite, you can take the following self-care steps for relief:
- Wash the bite gently with soap and water.
- Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth to reduce swelling.
- Keep the bite elevated above heart level when possible.
- Use an OTC antihistamine containing diphenhydramine to lessen itching.
- Take an OTC pain medicine like acetaminophen to ease discomfort.
See your doctor for severe reactions, persistent symptoms, signs of infection, or if you aren't sure what bit you. With prompt care, most spider bites heal without complication.
FAQs
What are some large spiders found in New Hampshire?
Some sizable spiders in NH include wolf spiders, fishing spiders, parson spiders, grass spiders, and cellar spiders. These species have legspans over an inch and bodies up to 1 inch long. Though their bites can be painful, they are not highly dangerous.
Where are large NH spiders found?
Habitats like woodlands, wetlands, fields, meadows, buildings, and gardens are home to the state's biggest spiders. Wolf spiders live in forests, while fishing and grass spiders prefer water edges. Parson spiders and cellar spiders reside near man-made structures.
How dangerous are large NH spiders?
While the larger spider species found in the state can deliver a nip, their venom is not extremely toxic. Usually their bites result in just mild swelling, redness, pain, and itching around the bite. Rarely people may experience more severe allergic responses.
How can I avoid large spider bites in NH?
Clearing brush and debris near your home, sealing cracks spiders use to enter, installing bug-deterring lights, reducing clutter, and maintaining a tidy yard all help block access and discourage New Hampshire's biggest spiders from taking up residence on your property.
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.
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