S & W Pest Management Inc : Insect Guide

Pest Guide » Spiders » Yellow Sac Spiders:

Yellow Sac Spiders
Cheiracanthium inclusum
Color: pale yellow
Legs: Eight
Shape: Round
Size: 1/4" in length
Antennae: No
Flight: No

Some members of this group of spiders are quite common in homes. These spiders are light or dark-colored and have a darker coloration on the cephalic (head) region. The body is covered with short hairs which give it a silky appearance.

The nighttime feeding behavior of sac spiders is similar to that of the parson spider. These spiders do not capture prey in webs, but actively hunt their prey at night. During the day, they hide in tubular silken capsules that they construct which gives them their common name. You may be able to find silken capsules on walls, ceiling, draperies and other locations. Bites from these spiders may result in localized allergic reactions in some individuals.

The venom of sac spiders contains a cytotoxin—which means it kills cells—like the venom of a brown recluse. Unlike brown recluse bites which can take 2-3 months to heal, most sac spider bites heal much more quickly, although the reaction will vary greatly from individual to individual.

Typical symptoms of a sac spider bite include a stinging sensation followed by redness and mild swelling. In a few cases, the bite may blister and break, leaving a sore that can take several weeks to heal. Sometimes the person will feel mildly ill.

Prevention:

The best approach for controlling spiders is through placement of sticky traps to capture a few spiders that may have entered. Maintaining sticky traps behind furniture, to either side of exterior doors, and in the garage is an excellent way to intercept most spiders as they enter.

Install tight-fitting screens on doors and windows to prevent entry.
Seal or caulk cracks and crevices where spiders can enter the house.
Install yellow or sodium vapor light bulbs outdoors since these attract fewer insects for spiders to feed upon.
Be sure to dust and vacuum frequently around windows, corners of rooms, shelves, under furniture, and behind mirrors and pictures.
If you see spider egg sacs, remove them.

If you would like to make an appointment with S & W Pest Management, please fill out the online appointment form or call 1-877-989-BUGS.