Spiders are often thought of as mostly winter pests, as they make their way into people’s homes to escape the cold, but they can also become a problem for homeowners in spring. Warmer weather brings increased spider activity for several reasons. Understanding what attracts spiders to people’s homes during this time of year is a good first step in preventing them from settling in. Read on to learn about what pulls spiders toward people’s homes in spring.

Food Sources

One of the biggest drivers of spider activity in spring is the surge in insect populations, which is often a result of the warmer weather. Spiders are predators, eating insects they either hunt or catch in their webs. Wherever their food supply is, they follow close behind. Because of this, spiders are usually a secondary pest. So if you’re seeing them in your home, it’s likely that you have an existing insect problem on your hands. 

Gaps around doors and windows, standing water and outdoor lighting are all things that may bring insects into your home, and in turn, spiders too. Addressing the insect problem is usually the most effective way to reduce spider activity.

Mating Season

Spring is a prime mating season for many species of spiders. This biological drive is a major factor that causes them to become more active than they are in the colder weather. Female spiders emerge from winter dormancy to lay their eggs, with some species laying hundreds of eggs at one time, while males travel far distances in search of a mate. While fall is generally considered peak breeding season for spiders indoors, this surge in mating activity in spring can also impact how many you see in your home.

Shelter

Beyond food and mates, spiders are also drawn to people’s homes in spring because they offer shelter and protection. Even though temperatures rise in spring, there are still plenty of cold snaps. Homes offer consistent, comfortable conditions that are especially attractive to spiders looking for a safe place to nest and lay eggs. Inside your home, spiders usually take up shelter in quiet, undisturbed areas like basements, crawl spaces, closets and storage areas.

Clutter and Entry Points

Like most pests, spiders are small opportunists, and both the inside and outside of your home can either invite them in or push them away. Indoors, dark and cluttered spaces give them plenty of undisturbed spots to hide. Outdoors, overgrown shrubs, tall grass and yard debris create ideal hiding places, as well as provide easy access points to your home. Keeping your home free of clutter and maintaining the exterior by trimming shrubs and clearing out debris can go a long way in making your home less attractive to spiders.

Now that you know what brings spiders to people’s homes in spring, you can protect yours before these pests make themselves comfortable. If, despite your best efforts, you notice a spider problem in your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to Pro-Staff, a trusted pest control company in Des Moines, for reliable spider control. Our team of expert technicians knows exactly what brings spiders in, where they hide, and how to remove them and keep them out. Contact us today to put us on your pest control home team!