Crab spiders might change everything you know about spiders. These eight-legged creatures don’t even build webs! In fact, they don’t even go out to hunt. Using their camouflage, these spiders blend into their surroundings and wait for their prey to come to them. This means that crab spiders often lurk where prey is easy to find, such as gardens and landscaped areas. But did you know that crab spiders may be beneficial?

Identification

Crab spiders are named after their crustacean counterpart. Not only do they look similar to crabs, but they even walk side to side on their hind legs the way that crabs do. These spiders are relatively small, about four to 10 millimeters in length, and their bodies are flat when compared to other arachnids. Crab spiders vary in color and can be anywhere from neon yellow to white or brown. Similar to a chameleon, crab spiders are able to change colors in order to better blend in with their surroundings. You can find crab spiders low to the ground, either in the soil or on foliage, where they lurk for prey. 

The Benefits of Crab Spiders

You may think it’s necessary to eliminate crab spiders from your garden immediately, but they may actually be helping you out in your pest control efforts! Crab spiders feed on pests, such as moths, flies, and mosquitoes, meaning they act as an excellent natural source of pest control. It is important to note that crab spiders are venomous, but their mouths are too small to pierce human skin. 

Signs of an Infestation

Because crab spiders rely on being hidden, it can be hard to detect an infestation. In fact, the only sign of an infestation is the crab spider itself. Crab spiders are rarely found indoors as they prefer to remain outside. 

While crab spiders are beneficial, many other pests are not. If you’re looking for pest control maintenance for your Ankeny home, consider working with Pro-Staff Pest Control. Our highly effective 8-step program will eliminate all crawling insects from your home. To get your no-cost, no-obligation quote, just give us a call at (515) 279-7378.