Cellar Spider

Identification: Cellar Spiders found in Muskoka are easily recognizable by their long, slender legs and small, bulbous bodies. Typically measuring between 4 to 10 mm in body length, these spiders are often pale yellowish or grayish in color. Their delicate, almost fragile appearance is contrasted by their elongated legs, which can span up to 40 mm. Cellar Spiders are sometimes called “daddy long-legs” due to their spindly legs and small, rounded cephalothorax.

Habitat: In Muskoka, Cellar Spiders are commonly found in dark, undisturbed environments such as basements, crawl spaces, and garages. They prefer areas that provide both shelter and a steady supply of prey. Their name reflects their preference for cellars and similar spaces where they can build their irregular, tangled webs. These spiders are often seen hanging from their webs in corners or crevices, where they quietly wait for prey to become ensnared.

Diet: Cellar Spiders primarily feed on other small insects and spiders that become trapped in their webs. Their diet may include ants, flies, and small beetles. The spider’s method of feeding involves immobilizing prey with their venom and then injecting digestive enzymes to break down the victim before consumption. This allows them to extract nutrients efficiently from their catch.

Behavior: Cellar Spiders are known for their unique web-building behavior. Unlike orb-weavers, their webs are not neatly organized but rather appear as a chaotic tangle of threads. This irregular web structure is highly effective at trapping wandering insects. Cellar Spiders are generally nocturnal and are more active during the night, when they repair their webs and search for prey. They have a notable defensive behavior where they may rapidly shake their web if disturbed, potentially disorienting predators or intruders.

Prevention: Preventing Cellar Spider infestations involves several practical steps. Keeping basements and crawl spaces clean and free of clutter can reduce potential hiding spots for these spiders. Regularly vacuuming and removing spider webs can help keep their populations in check. Sealing cracks and gaps in walls, floors, and around windows can prevent Cellar Spiders from entering your home. Additionally, reducing outdoor lighting or using yellow bulbs can decrease the number of insects that might attract spiders indoors.

Control: Managing Cellar Spider populations typically involves a combination of cleanliness and targeted treatments. Removing webs and regularly cleaning areas where spiders are known to congregate can reduce their numbers. For more persistent issues, applying insecticides or spider repellents in affected areas can help control their presence. Ensuring that these treatments are applied according to product guidelines is essential for effective results.

If you are concerned about pests like Cellar Spiders, Bug Free Muskoka offers a proactive solution with their General Pest Control Service. This service includes a comprehensive treatment applied to the exterior of homes, targeting potential entry points and areas where spiders might find shelter. By creating a protective barrier, Bug Free Muskoka helps to prevent spiders and other pests from entering your living space, contributing to a more comfortable and bug-free environment throughout the year.