Spiders in the House? Here’s What’s Creeping Around Sarasota and Manatee Counties
From the web-slinging pros at Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control
Let’s face it—spiders get a bad rap. Sure, they have too many legs, move like tiny ninjas, and show up in your bathroom at the worst possible time. But most spiders in Florida are actually harmless pest control allies in disguise.
That said, "most" isn’t the same as "all." And here in Sarasota and Manatee counties, we’ve got a few eight-legged residents you do want to steer clear of.
So which spiders should you welcome (begrudgingly), and which ones should have you dialing Westfall’s faster than you can say "arachnid"?
Let’s break it down.
Common House Spiders: Creepy, but Harmless
1. American House Spider
Brown, small, and a fan of corners you never clean.
Builds messy webs that make your home look haunted year-round.
Harmless and kind of lazy. More nuisance than nightmare.
2. Daddy Longlegs (Cellar Spider)
All legs, no threat.
Not technically a spider, but it’s on the team.
Internet myth says they’re “the most venomous spider but can’t bite humans”—that’s totally false. They’re basically awkward furniture.
3. Jumping Spiders
Small, fuzzy, and disturbingly bold.
Will look you in the eye before hopping away like it owns the place.
Harmless. Just weirdly confident.
4. Golden Silk Orb-Weaver (a.k.a. Banana Spider)
Found outside mostly, but their webs are as strong as fishing line and somehow always across your face during yard work.
Not dangerous. Just dramatic.
Spiders to Watch Out For (AKA: Call Us Immediately)
Now let’s get to the ones that aren’t just creepy—they’re dangerous. These spiders pack venom strong enough to cause real problems, and they do live in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.
1. Brown Recluse (a.k.a. The Ninja Spider)
Rare in Florida, but not impossible—especially in boxes, garages, sheds, or storage areas.
Small and tan with a violin-shaped mark on its back (but good luck getting close enough to ID it).
Venomous. Can cause necrotic skin ulcers. Not fun. Not welcome.
Warning signs: If you see a reclusive little spider hanging out in dark, undisturbed places—don’t poke it. Call us.
2. Southern Black Widow
Shiny black body with a red hourglass on the belly. Looks like it’s dressed for a villain role—and it is.
Loves garages, outdoor furniture, sheds, and under decks.
Venomous. A bite can cause severe pain, cramping, and nausea. Rarely fatal, but definitely ER-worthy.
Fun fact: Only the females are dangerous. The males are basically wallflowers.
So Why Are They in Your House?
Spiders don’t invade your home because they hate you. (Probably.) They’re usually there because:
You’ve got bugs—and spiders are hungry.
It’s hot or rainy out (classic Florida problems), and they want shelter.
There are cracks, gaps, or open windows they can slip through.
Translation: Spiders are a symptom. If you’ve got a spider problem, chances are you’ve got an insect buffet going on somewhere too.
How to Keep Spiders From Becoming Roommates
Seal cracks and crevices. Window frames, door gaps, baseboards—spiders are pros at finding the tiniest openings.
Declutter. Cardboard boxes, piles of clothes, and garage junk = spider resorts.
Vacuum webs regularly. Yes, even that high-up corner you pretend not to see.
Turn off porch lights. Or switch to yellow bulbs. Lights attract bugs. Bugs attract spiders. It’s the food chain in action.
Or Just Let Us Handle It (No Judgment)
At Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control, we’re trained to deal with all of Florida’s creepy-crawlies—spiders included. Whether it’s a harmless house guest or a venomous VIP, we know how to identify it, treat it, and keep your home web-free.
🕷️ Spiders creeping you out? Call Westfall’s.
We’ll handle the pests, the webs, and the weird feelings in your shoes before you put them on.
Because in Florida, it’s not if a spider shows up—it’s when. Let’s make sure your home isn’t on their map.