Spiders in your Virginia Highlands home
It is common to find a spider in your Virginia Highlands home from time to time, it is a very different situation when there is an infestation. Usually, when you have many spiders they are there because of a food source. The primary food source is other bugs. Any other insect issue needs to be addressed to rid your home of spiders. They like dark areas and depending on your climate they can be drawn to moisture or dry areas. An exterminator is the best way to attack this problem.
Dangerous Spiders
While there are about 3,500 species of spiders in the United States, only two of them are harmful to humans. The Black Widow and the Brown Recluse. They can both be found here in Virginia Highlands. The Black Widow is a very identifiable spider, black with a red hourglass on it. If bitten by one you should seek medical care immediately. Their venom contains neurotoxins that can cause tremors, nausea, vomiting and chest pains. The Brown Recluse bite is usually not deadly but it can cause extensive skin damage. This spider is brown or tan with a gray tint and it has very long legs and a marking on it’s back that is dark and has the shape of a violin. If you think you have been bitten by one, seek medical care right away. Other spiders may bite but will not harm humans.