Most household spiders are not considered poisonous however almost all spiders possess venom for the purpose of subduing their prey – usually insects. Some species do require control, particularly the red-back spider.
Red-backs are common in urban habitats such as garden sheds, in piles of rubbish, and under steps or around swimming pools. They prefer to build webs in dry, sheltered sites, often with the upper part of the web being hidden from the sunlight. The spider hides in a funnel shaped retreat at the top of the web. The lower part of the web consists of a forest of mostly vertical, sticky catching threads.
Eliminating spiders from an area for a long period of time is almost impossible. Spiders do not congregate in a large single nest, so the population cannot be destroyed by targeting one site. New spiders will quickly recolonise an are if the inhabitants are killed off. In many species, young spiders ( spiderlings ) disperse by ballooning. They spin silk strands that are taken by the wind, carrying the spiders over potentially long distances.
TREATMENT:
Chemical sprays applied directly will kill redback spiders. Re-treatment throughout the year is sometimes necessary to deal with spiders, which are carried in on the wind. Treatments are still considered worthwhile, as a redback bite is more likely where a large population exists unchecked. Properties with severe infestations sometimes also have large numbers of red-backs dwelling in ceiling cavities. This is particularly alarming for residents as they commonly make their way down through down-lighting, ceiling fans and exhaust fans.
CAUTION : As red-backs generally make their webs under some form of shelter, they are often not seen. Check any potential web sites before putting your hands there. Wear gloves when gardening.
WARNING : Any suspicion of spider bite to humans or pets should be investigated promptly by the appropriate medical or veterinary professionals as appropriate.
SPIDERS
