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HOBO SPIDER
![[Larger view of a hobo spider]](images/hobospider_med.jpg)
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Description:
Vary from ½"
to 1 ¾" in body length, with dark brown carapace. The abdomen
has a chevron pattern that often fades in older specimens.
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Why
be concerned?
The hobo spider
actually helps control many insect pests. During late summer the
male travels about looking for mates. Hobo spiders bite when startled
or threatened. What starts as a small spider bite can grow into
a large wound as its powerful venom slowly kills the flesh.
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What
you can do.
Hobo spiders spin
a distinct, dense, funnel-shaped web, typically along foundations,
in woodpiles, stacked equipment, or yard waste. The hobo spider
rarely climbs high on vertical surfaces, so search low to the
ground. Hobo spiders do not create all funnel-shaped webs, but
treat them all carefully. Wear gloves when working in the yard,
cleaning your basement, or reaching into dark areas.
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What
we would do.
Our easiest, least
invasive treatment is a nontoxic material that makes it impossible
to attach a web to a structure. Reducing their food supply (insects),
eliminating habitat, and removing webs can also discourage hobo
spiders. Excessive populations can be eliminated through chemical
treatment. This integrated program can be adapted to control a
variety of spiders in and around structures.
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| Picture
courtesy of University of Nebraska. |
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