There are over one thousand species of spider in Canada. Spiders are useful insects to have around, as they trap other unwanted pests, like mosquitoes, in their webs. Most spiders are completely harmless to humans, however finding spider webs all over your property and home can be unsettling.
Spiders range in size and colour, but the majority of spiders you are likely to come across in your home are quite tiny. No matter the species, every spider has an unsegmented body with two main divisions and eight legs. Each spider produces silk which it uses to build nests, create cocoons for eggs, or trapping prey. The species of spiders most commonly found in homes and businesses are house spiders, wolf spiders, cellar spiders (daddy long legs) and fishing spiders.
Outdoor spiders will make their way into homes and businesses in search of food sources. To prevent these spiders from entering you home ensure that your windows, window screens and doors are weather proofed. That being said, many spiders are born and raised within your home. Many people believe that catching a spider and placing it outside is a humane solution to removing a single spider, however this is not the case. House spiders and cellar spiders generally live within your home and are unable to endure our harsh Canadian elements, meaning they will die when placed outside.
For the most part, spiders found in homes are not dangerous and do not transmit disease. It's true that the majority of spiders have venom glands, however they rarely bite humans. Most spiders are nocturnal and will avoid interaction with humans. Spiders are excellent friends to have within your home or around your property, as they are free pest control technicians! They help rid your home of flies, mosquitoes, centipedes and ear wigs. That being said, we understand why you wouldn't want to keep your creepy crawlies around.