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Family
Gnaphosidae
Characteristics –
Size: These spiders are small, with a body that is
usually less than 1/2-inch in length.
Color: Color varies, but most species are brown. Some
have bright orange or red markings.
Behavior –
Ground spiders are a widely varied group. A few species are commonly
associated with building invasions, especially the Parsons spider
which is recognized by the cross-like whitish marking on its
abdomen. Ground spiders are hunting spiders; they do not build webs,
but rather chase down their prey. Most species are night hunters but
some are active during the day.
Habitat – These spiders live outside beneath
stones and logs and within leaf litter, mulch and heavy ground
covering such as ivy. Indoors, they may be found scurrying along
baseboards and hiding beneath furniture and appliances.
Tips for Control – Ground spiders require few
treatments indoors to control, although an exterior foundation
treatment may be necessary in those rare cases where these spiders
regularly invade homes. Placement of sticky insect traps inside your
home behind furniture and near doorways may capture many spiders as
they enter. The following tips may be helpful in reducing the number
of spiders around the home:
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Remove or limit heavy, ground-covering vegetation near the
building.
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Seal cracks and holes in the building’s exterior.
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Install tight fitting screens on all attic and foundation
vents.
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Seal holes around pipes indoors, especially those plumbing
lines leading from basements and crawl spaces, to prevent
spiders from entering your home.
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