Cellar spiders, common household arachnids often found in quiet corners of homes, are frequently misunderstood, particularly regarding their ability to bite. This article clarifies factual information about cellar spiders and their interaction with humans.
Identifying Cellar Spiders
Cellar spiders are recognized by their distinct physical traits. They have long, thin legs and small, oval-shaped bodies, which can range in color from pale yellowish to light brown or gray. Some species might also display darkened joints on their legs, contributing to a “knobby-kneed” appearance. While often referred to as “daddy long-legs,” it is important to distinguish them from harvestmen, a different type of arachnid that shares this nickname but does not produce silk.
These spiders are commonly found in undisturbed, often damp, indoor environments. Basements, cellars, crawl spaces, and quiet corners near ceilings or windows are typical habitats where they construct their loose, irregular webs. Cellar spiders often hang upside down in these messy webs and may vibrate rapidly when disturbed, a behavior that can make them appear as a blur.
Do Cellar Spiders Bite?
Cellar spiders possess fangs and venom glands. However, bites on humans are exceedingly rare. They are not aggressive towards humans and typically only bite if directly threatened or accidentally pressed against the skin. Their fangs are quite short, measuring approximately 0.25 millimeters, which can make it challenging for them to penetrate human skin effectively.
The unlikelihood of a cellar spider bite occurring is significant. Their primary method of subduing prey involves wrapping it in silk from a safe distance before delivering a venomous bite. This behavior, coupled with their shy nature, explains why human bites are uncommon.
Understanding a Cellar Spider Bite
Should a cellar spider bite occur, it is generally considered harmless and often goes unnoticed. Due to their short fangs and mild venom, any sensation from a bite is typically described as a mild pinprick or a slight sting. A common urban legend suggests cellar spiders possess highly potent venom that their short fangs prevent from being dangerous; however, scientific evidence does not support this claim.
Studies indicate that cellar spider venom has a relatively weak effect, even on insects, and poses no medical danger to humans. Bites typically result in no significant symptoms like swelling, redness, or pain, and do not cause long-term health consequences. In most cases, a cellar spider bite does not require medical attention beyond basic first aid, such as washing the area with soap and water.
Coexisting with Cellar Spiders
Managing cellar spiders in a home often involves simple, practical measures. Regularly dusting and vacuuming helps remove their messy webs. Reducing clutter in dark, undisturbed areas like basements and attics can also discourage their presence. Sealing cracks and openings in foundations or around windows further limits their entry into living spaces.
Cellar spiders play a role in natural pest control within a home. They prey on various insects, including mosquitoes, gnats, moths, and even other spiders. Their presence helps reduce populations of other household pests. They are considered harmless and pose no threat to people.