Disinfestation of spiders
Arachnophobia - the name given to the fear of spiders - is one of the most widespread phobias among humans. A fear that, in some cases, can be justified, since there are poisonous species of spiders. However, most spiders are harmless, although they are always unpleasant to spot near you. If that is your problem, Truly Nolen guarantees a thorough and effective spider disinfestation service.
Spiders can be found both in dark, isolated places and exposed to the sun, both inside and outside buildings. Most spiders are predators, but there are also some scavenger species, such as the robber spider.
Spider disinfestation? It's time to call Truly Nolen!
The experts at Truly Nolen can identify any type of spiders in every location they inspect and use the most appropriate methods to eliminate the infestation.
How to identify a spider
Contrary to what many people think, the spider is not an insect, but an arachnid of the order of arthropods. It has a well-developed nervous system and produces a thread with which it makes webs of great lightness and strength.
Spider webs may be the first visible sign of its existence in a given location. The size and shape of the webs vary according to species: some are rounded, others are tunnel-shaped, still others form a kind of den that serves as a trap for their prey.
All spiders produce silk thread, but not all spiders make webs. Some species find shelter in cracks and holes, hiding whenever they can. In some cases, the thread is used to build a cocoon for the eggs laid.
The body of spiders consists of a cephalic area, covered by a convex carapace; and articulated limbs covered with a cuticle of chitin and proteins. These arthropods have eight legs, a pair of pedipalps with which they capture and manipulate prey, and a pair of chelicerae, which inoculate venom. The number of eyes depends on the species of spiders: they can have four, six, or eight eyes, and there are even spiders without eyes, which live in the depths.
What species of spiders exist in Portugal?
Of the 40,000 species of spiders that exist around the world, around 1,000 have been identified in mainland Portugal, the Azores and Madeira.
Of these, only two are considered potentially dangerous to human health and can be found in an urban environment: the Mediterranean black widow (Latrodectus tredecimguttatus) characterized by orange/pale or bright red spots; and the violet spider (Loxosceles rufescens), with short dark hair, faded heart spots and long thin legs.
The venom of the black widow is neurotoxic and causes symptoms such as stiffness, muscle spasm of the lower limbs and abdomen, with abdominal, back and chest pain. On the other hand, the venom of the black widow spider is cytotoxic, leaving the site of the bite whitish, surrounded by erythemas, and can even cause wounds, tissue necrosis, and ulcers.
What to do after a spider disinfestation
After Truly Nolen's professional spider disinfestation intervention, keep an eye out for any signs of re-infestation. Spiders can leave up to 1000 eggs in each nest, so it is very important to keep an eye on the site.
- Vacuum all traces of spiders, including eggs and webs.
- Regularly clean all areas, including corners, baseboards, and ceilings.
- Maintain regular cleaning in your garden or on your balcony.
- Use protective screens on windows, doors and ventilation.
- Eliminate the spiders' food source such as mosquitoes, flies, ants, etc.
Disinfestation of spiders
Knowing the behavior and habitats of spiders is the job of disinfestation companies like Truly Nolen.
Our professionals wear gloves and a protective suit to prevent any accidents when carrying out spider disinfestation.
Some varieties of spiders prefer humid environments, so our survey includes places like basements, walls, sheds, and other moisture-rich places. Other species seem to like more airy, high places like attics or the junction of walls and ceilings. We also often find spiders inside vehicles, closets and storage boxes.
Have you detected a pest and want to do a spider disinfestation? Contact us!
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