When encountering an unfamiliar creature like a small red spider, it is natural to wonder about its potential danger. While some spiders can deliver a medically significant bite, the vast majority, including many small red ones, pose no harm to humans.
Identifying Common Little Red Spiders
Many tiny red creatures often mistaken for spiders are actually mites, which are arachnids closely related to spiders. Spider mites, for instance, are extremely small, less than 1/50th of an inch long, and possess an oval body with eight legs. They come in various colors, including red or reddish-brown, and are primarily found on plants, where they feed by piercing plant cells and sucking out sap. These mites are also known for producing fine silk webbing on infested plants.
Another common type is the clover mite, which measures about 1/30th of an inch and has a reddish-brown, oval body. A distinctive feature of clover mites is their elongated front pair of legs, often mistaken for antennae. These mites are frequently observed near windows, walls, and other exterior surfaces, and they leave a characteristic red stain if crushed. Unlike spider mites, clover mites feed on a wide range of plants, including grasses and clover, and may invade homes in large numbers, particularly during spring and fall.
Some small, red-colored true spiders, such as certain types of jumping spiders, can also be encountered. Jumping spiders are known for their excellent eyesight and ability to leap considerable distances, often seen in gardens or occasionally indoors. While they can be reddish, they are not considered a threat to humans.
Understanding Their Venom
Understanding the distinction between “poisonous” and “venomous” is important when considering spiders. An animal is considered poisonous if it causes harm when ingested or absorbed, while a venomous animal injects toxins through a bite or sting. The common little red creatures discussed, such as spider mites and clover mites, are not considered medically significant to humans. Spider mites are herbivores with mouthparts designed for feeding on plants and do not possess fangs to bite humans or produce venom that affects people.
Clover mites also do not bite or sting humans, as their mouthparts are adapted for consuming plant material. While some true spiders, including jumping spiders, do produce venom, the venom of small red jumping spiders is very mild and rarely causes more than minor, localized irritation if a bite occurs. Bites from these specific types of little red creatures are uncommon, and any resulting symptoms are negligible.
When to Seek Help and What to Do
If you encounter common little red mites like spider mites or clover mites indoors, simple removal methods are sufficient. These can include wiping them away with a damp cloth or using a vacuum cleaner. To prevent their presence, maintaining good pest management practices, such as sealing cracks around foundations, windows, and doors, can be effective. Ensuring plants are healthy and well-maintained can also deter spider mites.
For any spider bite, regardless of the species, general first aid measures can help manage symptoms. Clean the bite area thoroughly with mild soap and water. Applying a cool compress or an ice pack to the affected area for about 15 minutes each hour can help reduce pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate discomfort, and antihistamines may be used to address itching.
While most spider bites are harmless and resolve on their own, seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or spread. This includes signs such as increasing pain, spreading redness, pus, or a growing wound at the bite site. Medical consultation is also recommended if a person experiences signs of infection, such as fever or chills, or if a severe allergic reaction develops, indicated by symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or mouth. If possible and safe to do so, bringing the spider or a clear photo of it can assist medical professionals with identification.