Guide to Common Spiders in Orange County - Identification, Bites, Prevention

A Guide to Common Spiders in Orange County, CA

Orange County's warm climate and diverse habitats are home to a fascinating array of spiders. While the large majority of spiders in the OC are not dangerous to humans, some species can inflict painful bites and should be treated with caution. This guide covers how to identify common Orange County spiders, their habits and habitats, how to avoid bites, and what to do if you get bitten.

Common Spider Families in Orange County

There are over 40,000 known spider species worldwide divided into more than 100 families. Here are some of the most common spider families found around Orange County homes and gardens:

• Orb-weavers - Orb-weavers spin characteristic circular webs. Common OC orb-weavers include garden spiders, barn spiders, and the impressive golden silk spider. They have venom but rarely bite humans.
• Jumping spiders - As their name suggests, jumping spiders pounce on their prey rather than building webs. The bold jumper is one of the most common in the OC. Jumping spiders have mild venom that usually only causes localized pain.
• Sac spiders - Sac spiders don't spin webs. Instead they hunt prey on walls, foliage and the ground. The yellow sac spider and brown sac spider deliver painful bites so should be avoided.
• Crab spiders - Crab spiders have a laterigrade walking style that resembles a crab's movement. The whitebanded crab spider and goldenrod crab spiders are some OC species. Their bites are not medically significant.
• Cellar spiders - Also known as daddy longlegs spiders, cellar spiders have long skinny legs and build messy-looking webs in dark corners. Despite myths, their fangs cannot pierce human skin.

Dangerous Spiders in Orange County

Most native Orange County spiders play a valuable role in controlling pests and pose little threat to humans. But there are two spiders of medical concern to watch out for:

Black Widow Spider

The black widow is one of the most infamous and dangerous spiders in North America. Females have a distinctive red hourglass marking on their underside. They build messy cobwebs in sheltered areas like woodpiles, garages, and crawl spaces. The neurotoxic venom can cause muscle cramps, nausea, and breathing difficulties, although antivenom prevents severe complications and deaths.

Brown Recluse Spider

While not native to California, brown recluse spiders occasionally hitchhike into the state in shipping containers. They can take up residence in man-made structures like attics and basements. The brown recluse has a violin-shaped marking on its head region. Its hemotoxic venom destroys red blood cells and causes severe necrosis at the bite site. Medical evaluation is crucial if bitten.

Avoiding Spider Bites in Orange County

Most spider bites happen when spiders get accidentally trapped or crushed against bare skin. Here are tips to avoid bites:

• Clear clutter like stacks of wood, boxes and other items they can hide in when outdoors.
• Wear gloves, long sleeves and pants when working in the yard or cleaning garages and basements.
• Inspect or shake out items like shoes, towels, and clothing before use.
• Install screens on windows and doors and seal openings to prevent entry.
• Use insecticides and sticky traps to reduce spiders in the home.
• Leave spiders alone if spotted rather than trying to handle them.

Identifying Common Orange County Spiders

Being able to identify local spiders helps assess which ones require caution or control measures. Here are some of the most common house and yard spider species in the OC:

Southern Black Widow

• Size: Female body is about 1/2 inch long
• Color: Shiny black body and legs with red hourglass on abdomen
• Webs: Tangled three-dimensional webs in sheltered spots

Brown Widow

• Size: Female body is about 1/2 inch long
• Color: Variable colors from light tan to dark brown with tan and white bands on legs
• Webs: Irregular cobwebs in protected areas

Yellow Sac Spider

• Size: About 1/4 - 1/2 inch long
• Color: Pale yellow body with faint darker markings
• Webs: None - hunts prey

Cellar Spider

• Size: Body is less than 1/4 inch; legspan reaches 2+ inches
• Color: Pale yellow, grey or brown body with very long, thin legs
• Webs: Tangled, chaotic webs in dark corners

Jumping Spider

• Size: About 1/4 inch long
• Color: Black body with white, grey, orange or green markings
• Webs: None - jumps on prey

Orbweaver Garden Spider

• Size: Body is over 1/2 inch long
• Color: Yellow and black patterned abdomen with red head area
• Webs: Classic circular web with support threads

Spider Bites vs. Other Bugs

Spider bites are often blamed for inexplicable skin lesions, pain or rashes. However, research shows up to 80% of suspected spider bites are actually caused by other conditions or insects. Examples include:

• Bed bug bites
• Flea bites
• Mosquito bites
• Skin infections
• Allergic reactions
• Other insect bites or stings

Keep an open mind if you wake up with an irritated bump or spot. Unless you saw a confirmed spider bite happen, consider other possibilities before assuming it's a spider.

First Aid for Spider Bites in Orange County

If you have evidence a venomous spider recently bit you, take these immediate steps while awaiting medical care:

• Wash the bite area with soap and water if possible.
• Apply a cold compress to relieve swelling.
• Elevate the bitten limb if able.
• Take a photo of the spider if you were able to trap it safely for identification.
• Monitor for signs of reaction like pain, itching or redness spreading from the bite.
• Call 911 if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, nausea, sweating or dizziness.

Refrain from:

• Trying to suck out venom by mouth.
• Applying a tourniquet.
• Using ice directly on skin.
• Taking aspirin, ibuprofen or other blood thinners.

Spider Bite Treatment and Medical Care

Seek prompt medical evaluation if bitten by a known or probable venomous spider like a black widow or brown recluse. Anti-venoms are available to treat dangerous spider bites. Treatment may include:

• Cleaning the bite - Thoroughly flushing and disinfecting the bite prevents infection.
• Pain medication - Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers help manage bite pain and swelling.
• Tetanus shot - Tetanus boosters are sometimes needed depending on your vaccination history.
• Antivenom - Black widow and brown recluse antivenoms neutralize venom toxins but may cause allergic reactions.
• Hospitalization - Severe reactions may require hospitalization for supportive treatment, IV fluids, and monitoring.

For non-venomous spider bites, basic first aid and monitoring for infection is often all that's needed. Seek medical attention if you notice spreading redness, pus, fever or flu-like symptoms.

Coexisting with Spiders in Orange County

The majority of Orange County's spider species play a valuable role in controlling insect pests and are harmless if left alone. Take sensible precautions to avoid accidental bites. And if you spot spiders lurking in the corners or your yard, let them be to help maintain nature's balance in the OC.

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.