The fascinating wildlife of Australia is well known. Our diverse range of species, which includes human-sized spiders and deadly box jellyfish, astonishes and enthralls the rest of the world. However, a minor drawback of this is that unwanted visitors from the natural habitat frequently break into our homes. If appropriate barriers aren’t put in place, they could become a headache and health risk.
Black House Spider is one of the most common pests that affect homes, yet most misunderstand it as aggressive and dangerous. This guide will clear up such misconceptions and provide you with the right information about these spiders.
Identification of Black House Spider:
Black House Spiders are medium-sized spiders native to Australia. Their carapace is usually dark brown or black and covered in grey hairs. Sometimes, they also have faint markings on their oval-shaped abdomen. You can also identify it through its web structure, which is often irregular and messy.
Scientifically called Badumna Insignis, these creatures are easily identifiable by their dark colour, stocky body, and irregular webbing. However, this also causes people to think of them as dangerous. They are not. They have venom, but it’s not as life-threatening as some other venomous species.
Black house spiders also play a beneficial role in controlling other household pests like flies and ants. Thus, it becomes important to reduce unnecessary fear and keep a close watch on their population in your home. If the number grows, it’s vital to call a pest control service in Maitland or Newcastle and do what is needed.
Home Remedies to Keep Black House Spiders Away:
1. Essential Oils
Scents that we find pleasing are often repulsive to pests. Peppermint oil, particularly, is said to be exceptionally effective in driving pests away. Dilute ten to fifteen drops of peppermint oil in a cup of water and transfer it into a spray bottle. Spray this solution around entry points like windows and doorways, as well as any dark or secluded areas. Alternatively, you can also put this solution in a diffuser, creating a constant deterrent.
You can also use tea tree, lavender, citrus, or eucalyptus oil. They are all effective. However, some oils can irritate pets, so if you have any, make sure to keep them out of reach.
2. Vinegar
- Windowsills
- Doorways
- Cracks
- Crevices
- Baseboards
3. Salt
Salt, typically used for seasoning, doubles as a spider deterrent. Its dehydrating effect creates an uninhabitable environment for these unwelcome guests. To employ this method, create salt barriers at potential entry points. Sprinkle lines across doorways, windowsills, and floorboard cracks. However, this technique has a notable limitation: humidity. In moist areas, salt quickly absorbs water, losing its effectiveness.
Despite this drawback, many find salt an accessible, natural option for spider control. Consider your local climate when deciding if this pantry staple could be your new pest management ally.
4. Baking Soda
- Mix baking soda with water until thick.
- Target spider hotspots—dark corners and entryways
- Reapply it regularly to keep the uninvited guests at bay
5. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth offers an organic solution to spider problems. This fossilized algae powder, harmless to humans, is lethal to arachnids. Its razor-sharp edges cut through exoskeletons, causing dehydration. So, you can use this ingredient to combat potential spider infestations in your home.
Sprinkle food-grade DE around your home’s foundation, baseboards, and spider hideouts. Focus on dry areas for best results. Remember to wear a mask during application to avoid inhalation. With proper use, this powerful tool can effectively rid your space of unwanted eight-legged visitors.
Black House Spider Bite Treatment:
Being timid and shy, black house spiders often retreat to their webs. However, they can deliver a painful bite occasionally. It may cause swelling, nausea, vomiting, and sweating, but it’s not life-threatening.
Do not confuse a black house spider with a funnel web spider, and follow the first aid designed for the latter.
- Collect the spider, if possible, or take a picture for identification
- Sit down and relax first
- Disinfect the affected area
- Apply an ice pack
Pest Control Treatment for Black House Spider:
Aside from natural ingredients, we can also use chemical alternatives to keep black house spiders at bay. A standard insecticide spray can help prevent spiders from building webs for months.
If you already notice spider activity, make sure to call spider pest control experts without wasting any time. You can brush down the webs after 24 hours from spraying, or it will not be as effective. More importantly, do not wash the webs using a hose, as it will also wash away the insecticide.
Professional Pest Management:
Here are some signs you need to call an expert pest controller rather than resorting to home remedies or waiting for the situation to subside on its own:
- Visible and steep increase in spider activity
- Finding messy webs everywhere
- Recurring spider sightings despite your best efforts
- Noticeable presence of other pests that spiders are drawn to
- Signs of egg sac clusters
- Concerns about safety
With most professional services today, you also get to customise your service. For example, you can opt for eco-friendly pest control that’s safe for all, both humans and pets. Or consider integrated pest management, which is an approach that combines prevention, monitoring, and a mix of chemical and non-chemical treatments.
Another benefit of choosing a professional is that they also provide valuable advice on repelling pests in the future. So, contact the pest control services in your area and find the one that best matches your needs.
Final Word:
The Black House Spider is a valuable part of Australia’s biodiversity. Despite their harmless nature, they can still make one feel intimidated and concerned for their safety. They can even pose risks, such as allergic reactions and secondary infections, to pets. Thus, it is better to control them as immediately as possible.
Have you noticed a black house spider in your home? We advise you to take prompt action and get rid of it. If you’ve found signs of multiple spiders, consider contacting Oz Pest for a proper inspection and treatment. You can reach out to us by phone or book an appointment online.
