Long Body Cellar Spider Overview

The long body cellar spider, also known as 'Daddy Long-legs', is a common pest found in many homes and buildings across North America. These spiders are recognizable by their eight very thin, long legs and are often seen spinning webs in dark, unventilated areas.

One of the primary reasons that cellar spiders become pests is because of the unsightly webs they create in homes and buildings. While mature adults live for approximately two years, it takes almost a year for a spider to fully mature from egg to adult. Cellar spiders hold their egg sacs in their mouthparts until the offspring hatches, and each sac can produce up to 60 spiderlings.

The forelegs of an adult female cellar spider can grow as long as 50 millimeters, which is impressive considering that they are already one of the longer spider species. In fact, a single female cellar spider can produce up to three egg sacs in her lifetime, and with their legs included, their total length can be up to six times longer.

Cellar spiders do not consume their old webs like other spiders; instead, they continuously add on to existing webs. These web-building spiders feed on insects, especially ants, and cannibalize other spiders. They are considered pests because they regularly infest heated buildings like homes and warehouses.

It's no surprise that cellar spiders acquired their name from their favored habitat - the cellar. However, it's not just cellars where you'll find them; they can be found in dark, unventilated areas around the building's exterior as well. If you notice numerous adult cellar spiders in these areas or discover sloppy or haphazard webbing, it could be a sign of an infestation.

To help prevent a cellar spider infestation, it's essential to regularly inspect common habitat areas for new webs and remove any visible spiders and webs with a vacuum cleaner. You should also install proper ventilation in cellars and similar spaces, use dehumidifiers to manage internal humidity levels, especially in lower levels, and seal cracks and crevices in the exterior with good quality caulk.

If you do encounter an infestation, it's best to contact a licensed pest control company with experience in cellar spider infestations. Remember that cellar spiders are generally harmless to humans and do not bite or cause damage to buildings; however, their presence can still be a nuisance due to the unsightly webs they create. By being aware of these spiders and taking steps to prevent infestations, you can keep your home or building free from unwanted guests.

Long body cellar spider overview