How To Keep Brown Recluse Spiders Away
If you’re living in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, or elsewhere in New Mexico, you might have crossed paths with the notorious brown recluse spider. These venomous arachnids are known for their reclusive nature but sometimes find their way into homes. In this article, we’ll delve into what attracts brown recluse spiders to New Mexico homes and, more importantly, how property owners can keep these spiders away.
What attracts brown recluse spiders
- New Mexico’s warm and dry climate
With our hot, arid summers and mild winters, New Mexico’s climate provides the ideal environment for brown recluse spiders. - They love dark, hidden spaces
Brown recluse spiders are shy and prefer to hide in dark, quiet areas where there is little to no foot traffic and where they can avoid predators. That’s why they’re often found in closets, basements, garages, and storage areas. - They prey on insects that infest homes
Brown recluse spiders primarily feed on insects, so if your home has an abundance of bugs, there’s a good chance that you’ll attract brown recluse and other types of spiders.
How to keep brown recluse spiders away
- Declutter & organize
One of the first steps in spider prevention is decluttering your home. Regularly decluttering, cleaning, and organizing storage areas eliminates potential hiding spots for these spiders. - Seal entry points
This is pest-proofing 101: if you don’t want spiders or the insects the prey upon getting into your home, you need to seal every crack, gap, and hole you find on your home’s exterior with caulking or other effective material. - Get rid of the other insects
As we’ve touched on already, spiders are going to go where there’s food. If you’ve got other bugs in your home and they can find a way in, brown recluse spiders will come in. Eliminate the pests and you’ll reduce the chances of spider activity inside.
Do natural deterrents stop brown recluse spiders?
Peppermint oil, vinegar, and cedarwood are just a few of the natural remedies said to deter brown recluse spiders, but it is our experience that they will not provide the same level of effectiveness as a professional pest treatment.
Be mindful of brown recluse spiders
Whether you have reason to believe brown recluse spiders are already active in your home or not, it would be wise of you to be mindful of these arachnids, especially when reaching into dark, secluded areas. Although brown recluses are not aggressive, they will defend themselves.
Unfortunately, brown recluse spider bites are considered dangerous because they inject venom into their victim. Left un-treated, the toxins in the venom can damage tissues and cause various health problems including redness, swelling, and pain as well as fever, chills, nausea, and joint pain. The venom can also cause necrotic tissues to develop around the bite area, which can lead to an open ulcer and be slow to heal.
What to do if you see brown recluses or other spiders in your home
If you’ve found brown recluses or other spiders in your home, contact Greenway Pest Solutions for help getting rid of these pests. Not only do our local pest control specialists treat specifically for spiders, but we also exterminate the insects that might be attracting them to your home.
In fact, our home pest control services are the ideal solution for spiders, insects, and even rodents; it includes:
- An initial pest inspection
- An interior and exterior pest treatment to eliminate existing pests
- Quarterly pest control services to keep spiders and other pests from re-infesting
Give us a shout to learn more about our residential services or to request a free pest control quote today!
