Brown Recluse & Black Widow Spiders in Smithfield, VA: What You Need to Know

Smithfield’s natural beauty and relatively mild climate make it an appealing place to live, but these factors also make it an inviting environment for pests – and anywhere pests are found, spiders won’t be far behind. Two of the most infamous spiders found in the United States are the brown recluse and the black widow. Both species can be found in Virginia, though only black widows are native to the state. Either way, it’s a good idea to think about figuring out your plan for spider control!

Brown Recluse Spiders

Despite their reputation, brown recluse spiders are rarely aggressive and prefer to avoid humans. They are also very rarely spotted in Virginia. That being said, because they do sometimes pop up and can still be dangerous if disturbed, it’s important to know how to identify them.

Brown recluses are usually light to medium brown and have a distinctive violin-shaped marking on their back. Adult spiders range from 6 to 20 mm in length. They're known for hiding in quiet, undisturbed areas like basements, closets, and sheds.

Though their reclusive nature makes them unlikely to attack, a bite can still happen if one feels cornered. The reaction can be mild for some, but others may develop painful skin sores or flu-like symptoms. If you think you’ve been bitten, it’s always a good idea to check in with a doctor just to be safe.

Black Widow Spiders

Black widows, the only venomous spiders native to Virginia, are easy to spot if you know what to look for. They’re glossy black with a bright red hourglass shape on their belly, and they love to hide in dark, undisturbed places like sheds, crawlspaces, and woodpiles. Their webs are messy and irregular.

Their venom is strong, but they don’t bite unless provoked. If they do, it can lead to cramping, nausea, and pain that spreads through your body. Most people recover quickly, but it’s still important to see a doctor if you’re bitten. This is especially true for kids or older adults.

Did you know that only the adult female black widow poses a threat to humans? The males are smaller, lighter in color, and not considered dangerous.

How to Reduce Spider Activity at Home

Keeping spiders at bay starts with a little routine upkeep. Here are some steps that can help:

• Get rid of clutter in places like basements, garages, and sheds.
• Seal up any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and the foundation.
• Shake out shoes, clothing, or gear that’s been in storage.
• Trim bushes and branches that brush up against your house.
• Cut down on other pests, which are the main food source of spiders

These steps go a long way, but when it comes to brown recluses or black widows, having professional spider control on your side makes a big difference.

Spider Control Solutions in Smithfield, VA

At Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads, we understand how unsettling it can be to find venomous spiders lurking near your living space. Our spider control service is built to help manage both the immediate concern and keep them from returning.

Our Home Shield pest control package starts with a close look at your home’s exterior, especially areas spiders tend to hide, like foundation lines, vents, and eaves. Then we apply our Barrier Treatment Plus, made with a proprietary Essential Botanical Insecticide that uses essential oils to create a long-lasting perimeter. It keeps working for up to 21 days.

Our approach includes:

• Inspection: We find the entry points and hot spots.
• Treatment: We target those areas with our signature botanical blend.
• Follow-ups: We return throughout the season to monitor populations and keep spiders away for longer.

We also offer the Yard Defender package for outdoor pest control, covering over 20 different pests, including spiders, mosquitoes, and ticks.

Searching for spider control near me?

For dependable outdoor pest control near you, call on the professionals at Mosquito Squad. Call (860) 356-3953 or contact us online for a complimentary Hampton Roads pest control assessment and quote.

Read about our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee!