From the harmless common house guest to species that cause concern, spiders are a frequent sight in Seattle and the wider Pacific Northwest. While most are beneficial predators, no one wants an infestation in their home or business.
AMPM Exterminators, Seattle’s trusted local experts in ant control, rodent extermination, and commercial pest management, will help you identify common PNW spiders and know when it’s time to call a professional.
Common Spiders of the Pacific Northwest
1. Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica)
- Identification: Large, fast-moving spiders with long, banded legs and a distinct pattern on their carapace. They are often mistaken for Hobo Spiders but are larger and less aggressive.
- Habitat: Common in basements, garages, and crawl spaces, where they build large, funnel-shaped webs.
- Risk Level: Low. They are not considered dangerous to humans and help control other pests.
2. Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis)
- Identification: Brown with a distinctive herringbone pattern on its abdomen. They build funnel webs close to the ground.
- Habitat: Often found in dark, moist areas like basements, window wells, and woodpiles.
- Risk Level: Moderate. While debate exists, their bite can sometimes cause a slow-healing wound. Caution is advised.
3. Cross Orbweaver (Araneus diadematus)
- Identification: Recognizable by the white cross pattern on its bulbous abdomen. They create the classic, circular “orb” webs in gardens and on structures.
- Habitat: Gardens, eaves, and between shrubs.
- Risk Level: Low. They are harmless and excellent for natural pest control outdoors.
4. Black Widow (Latrodectus hesperus)
- Identification: Glossy black with a definitive red hourglass shape on the underside of the abdomen.
- Habitat: Prefers dark, undisturbed areas like woodpiles, sheds, and under decks.
- Risk Level: High. Their venom is a neurotoxin. While rarely fatal, a bite requires immediate medical attention.
5. Yellow Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium mildei)
- Identification: Pale yellow or greenish in color, with a darker stripe running down the center of its abdomen.
- Habitat: Often found indoors on walls and ceilings. They do not build webs but create silken “sac” retreats in corners.
- Risk Level: Moderate. Their bite can be painful and cause a red, swollen lesion.
When Spider Control Becomes Essential: Know the Signs
While a single spider can be safely relocated, an infestation requires professional help. Contact AMPM Exterminators if you notice:
- A High Population: Numerous spiders in living areas, basements, or garages.
- Webs Everywhere: An abundance of webs in and around your property.
- Egg Sacs: Silken, pearl-colored sacs in corners, eaves, or hidden spots, indicating a growing population.
- Concerning Species: The presence of potentially dangerous spiders like the Black Widow or a large number of Hobo Spiders.
- Spiders in Business Settings: For Seattle commercial pest control, even a few spiders can alarm customers and employees, making professional management essential.
AMPM Exterminators: Your Seattle Spider Control Experts
Your confidence in our team means everything to us and we’re proud to have earned your trust by delivering real, lasting results. Just as we take a science-driven approach to ant control and rodent extermination, our spider management is thorough and effective.
Our Science-Driven Spider Extermination Process:
- Inspection & Identification: Our licensed technicians will identify the spider species, locate entry points, and find nesting grounds.
- Targeted Treatment: We use specialized treatments to eliminate existing spiders and apply residual barriers to prevent re-entry. Our methods are safe for families and pets when applied correctly.
- Exclusion & Prevention: We’ll advise on sealing cracks, reducing outdoor lighting (which attracts insects, their food source), and clearing debris to make your property less inviting.
Trusted for All Your Pest Control Needs in Seattle
While spiders are our focus here, AMPM Exterminators is your comprehensive solution for pest management across Seattle and King County.
Ant Control and Extermination Experts in Seattle
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Serving the Greater Seattle Area
We’re proud to serve homes and businesses throughout the Seattle metro area, including:
Downtown Seattle • Capitol Hill • Queen Anne • Ballard • Fremont • West Seattle • Bellevue • Kent • Renton • Kirkland • Redmond • Sammamish • Issaquah • Maple Valley • Burien • Tukwila • Auburn and all surrounding communities.
Encountering More Than Just Spiders?
Don’t let pests take over your space. Whether you’re dealing with a spider infestation, persistent ants, or rodents, our team is here to help.
Call Your Seattle Pest Control Experts Today: 206-571-7580
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- Same-Day Service Available
- Licensed & Insured Professionals
- Commercial & Residential Services
Thank you for trusting AMPM Exterminators. We are proud to continue serving our community with effective, science-based pest solutions and unmatched customer care.