House Spider Habitat
American house spiders commonly inhabit the same structures people do. These small cobweb spiders, closely related to the widow spiders, are beneficial predators and should not be seen as a nuisance. Habitats very greatly throughout their range; however, they are often found where humans or human objects are found. Although not a common sight, you may occasionally see one hanging upside down in its web.
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Geography
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The American house spider is common throughout the United States and southern Canada. The spider is also abundant throughout Central America and Mexico. Some people believe the spider may have been transported from South America, although it was first described in Germany, according to studies done by the University of Florida and the University of Arkansas. It is probable that this species has traveled and settled around the world by way of humans.
Preferred Habitat
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American house spiders are common indoors, although they also have outdoor habitats. These spiders prefer humid locations and may be easily discovered in crawl spaces or basements. A look at an outdoor light may also provide a glance of one of these spiders. You may also find them under highway bridges.
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Significance
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American house spiders choose a location where they can easily attach their webs. The webs account for a majority of the cobwebs found indoors. Webs are often made in a tangled mess in the corner of two walls, sometimes near the ceiling of the structure. The typical cobweb is formed when the spider abandons the web due to lack of prey, leaving the nest to collect dust and other debris.
Benefits
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With this spider relying largely on man-made structures and houses for its habitat, many benefits arise. The American house spider eats a large amount of aerial insects and other arthropods, including mosquitoes and flies. This species is also known to attack and kill larger prey, such as cockroaches,
Considerations
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American house spiders, while not dangerous to humans, can produce a painful bite if handled or disturbed. The spiders are largely nocturnal, although you may come across one in the daytime while cleaning or dusting. Also, one spider may attract more spiders if it has found a desirable location with heavy prey. Many house spiders may build their webs on top of each other and adjoining. The benefit of this practice is fewer bugs in your house due to the increased numbers of predators.
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References
- Photo Credit spider image by Henryk Olszewski from Fotolia.com
