If you’ve spotted a strange-looking spider in your home in Los Angeles, it could be the woodlouse spider. This reddish-brown spider with a large body and long fangs might look scary, but should you be worried? In this article, we’ll talk about the woodlouse spider, how to identify it, what it does, and when to consider calling pest control services in Los Angeles.

What Is a Woodlouse Spider?

The woodlouse spider (scientific name Dysdera crocata) is a spider commonly found in homes, gardens, and woodpiles. It is known for its reddish body, large head, and sharp fangs. Unlike other spiders that build webs to catch prey, the woodlouse spider hunts its food, which mostly includes woodlice (also called pill bugs or roly-poly).

This spider’s strong jaws are designed to bite through the tough shells of woodlice. While they usually prefer to stay hidden under rocks, logs, or in dark corners of your home, they may wander indoors in search of food or shelter.

Identifying a Woodlouse Spider

Here’s how you can tell if the spider you’re seeing is a woodlouse spider:

  • Colour: The spider has a red-orange head and a pale, yellowish-brown abdomen.

  • Size: It can grow up to 0.6 inches (15mm) long, not including its legs.

  • Legs: It has long legs that are also reddish.

  • Fangs: Look closely and you’ll notice its large fangs, which it uses to catch and bite its prey.

If you spot a spider like this in your home, don’t panic. Although it looks intimidating, the woodlouse spider is not aggressive toward humans.

Are Woodlouse Spiders Dangerous?

The woodlouse spider can bite if it feels threatened, but its bite is not dangerous to humans. You might experience mild pain, redness, or swelling, similar to a bee sting, but that’s usually it. There are no serious health risks from a woodlouse spider bite.

However, if you notice increased swelling, severe pain, or an allergic reaction, it’s always wise to seek medical advice.

Why Are Woodlouse Spiders in My House?

Woodlouse spiders come indoors for a few reasons:

  • They’re following their food (woodlice) inside.

  • Your home may offer dark, damp places to hide, such as basements, crawl spaces, or under sinks.

  • They may enter through cracks, gaps, or poorly sealed doors and windows.

If you’re noticing more woodlouse spiders or other pests, it might be a good time to consider home pest control in Los Angeles.

How to Prevent Woodlouse Spiders in Your Home

Here are simple tips to keep these spiders out:
Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and the foundation of your house.
Reduce moisture in your home by using a dehumidifier and fixing leaks.
Clean up clutter like piles of wood, leaves, and debris where woodlice and spiders might hide.
Keep your home tidy, especially in dark corners and storage areas.
Professional pest control services in Los Angeles for long-term prevention.

When to Call a Pest Control Professional

If you’re seeing many woodlouse spiders or other pests in your home, it might be time to call pest control at home in Los Angeles. A pest control expert can:
Inspect your home to find where spiders and woodlice are entering.
Provide treatment to remove pests safely and effectively.
Help seal entry points to stop future infestations.

Many homeowners worry about the pest control cost in Los Angeles, but keep in mind that catching a problem early can save you money and prevent bigger issues later.

Fun Facts About the Woodlouse Spider

Woodlouse spiders are nocturnal – they hunt at night.
They don’t spin webs like other spiders – they prefer to chase their prey.
They have excellent eyesight to help them find woodlice.
Even though they look scary, they help control woodlice populations in and around your home.

Final Thoughts

The woodlouse spider might look alarming, but it’s generally harmless and even helpful by keeping woodlice in check. However, if you notice an increase in these spiders or other pests, don’t wait. Pest control services in Los Angeles can help you manage pests safely and effectively.

Keeping your home sealed, dry, and clean will go a long way in preventing pest problems. And if you ever need help, remember that home pest control in Los Angeles is just a call away!