Biggest Spider Threats In Jacksonville, Florida

Spiders. Some people love them for Halloween décor, others… not so much. If you’re a homeowner in Jacksonville, you’ve probably noticed a few extra webs creeping into corners as fall settles in. Unlike mosquitoes or ants, spiders aren’t chasing warmth but food. And right now, your home is a buffet, with plenty of insects and cozy hiding spots.

The good news? Most spiders are harmless and even helpful, eating the bugs you don’t want around. The bad news? A few types can pose a real threat if left unchecked. Here’s what you need to know to protect your home and sanity.

Common Spider Species in Jacksonville

Black Widows

• Recognizable by: Shiny black body with a red hourglass on the abdomen
• Where you’ll find them: Garages, sheds, under furniture, and outdoor clutter
• The risk: Black widow spider venom is potent, but bites are rare and usually only happen if the spider feels threatened. Symptoms can include muscle aches, nausea, and difficulty breathing. Children, seniors, and pets are most at risk. Medical attention may be necessary.
• Pro tip: Keep storage areas tidy, shake out shoes and clothing that have been in the garage, and don’t reach blindly into boxes or dark corners.

Brown Recluses

• Recognizable by: Brown violin-shaped marking on its back
• Where you’ll find them: Dark, quiet spaces like attics, closets, under boxes, or woodpiles
• The risk: If untreated, brown recluse spider bites can cause tissue damage, along with fever or restlessness. Seek medical attention immediately if bitten.
• Pro tip: Regularly declutter and inspect hidden corners. Vacuum and shake out stored items before use.

Wolf Spiders

• Recognizable by: Large, hairy bodies and quick movement
• Where you’ll find them: Usually on the ground in yards, gardens, or basements
• The risk: They’re ground-dwelling hunters, not aggressive toward humans, but a bite can cause mild pain and swelling.
• Pro tip: Keep vegetation trimmed and remove debris near your home’s foundation to reduce hiding spots.

Garden Spiders

• Recognizable by: Large yellow-and-black striped bodies, sometimes called banana spiders or golden orb-weavers
• Where you’ll find them: Shrubs, gardens, porches, and fences
• The risk: Mild bites, if any, and generally harmless
• Pro tip: Keep outdoor areas clean and free of excess debris where spiders can hide. For spiders found near the home’s foundation or entry points, a pest control professional can help prevent them from moving indoors.

Grass Spiders

• Recognizable by: Funnel-shaped webs and brown-gray coloring
• Where you’ll find them: Tall grass, stairs, foundations, or corners of outdoor spaces
• The risk: Shy, non-aggressive spiders; bites are rare and mild
• Pro tip: Reduce tall grass and vegetation near your home, and remove debris that attracts insects.

How Spiders Enter Your Home

Spiders aren’t exactly “breaking in,” they’re taking advantage of the existing entry points:

• Gaps around doors and windows
• Vents and open screens
• Cracks in your foundation or siding
• Cluttered garages, sheds, or basements

Once inside, they’re drawn to areas with insects, dark corners, and undisturbed spaces to build webs.

Tips for a Spider-Free Home

• Seal gaps and cracks: Check windows, doors, vents, and your foundation. A little caulk goes a long way.
• Reduce clutter: Spiders love boxes, piles of clothes, and unorganized storage areas.
• Control other pests: Fewer insects = fewer spiders.
• Trim vegetation: Keep shrubs, grass, and trees away from your home’s exterior.
• Regular cleaning: Vacuum webs, wipe corners, and keep areas dry.
• Know when to call the pros: If you suspect a spider infestation—or just can’t keep up—a licensed pest control company can help.

Quick Spider FAQ

• Q: Do one or two spiders mean I have an infestation?
  A: Not necessarily. Spiders are often just passing through, but if you see many or recurring webs, it’s time to take action.
• Q: Are brown recluse spiders common in Jacksonville?
  A: They are rare, but precautions are still wise, especially in dark, cluttered areas.
• Q: Can spiders live in my home year-round?
  A: Yes. Jacksonville’s warm climate lets many spiders stay active outside year-round, but they may enter your home seeking food or shelter. Regular maintenance can help keep them out.

Contact Lindsey Pest Services for Relief from Spiders and Other Pests

Most spiders in Jacksonville are harmless, but a few can bite and cause serious reactions. The best defense? Keep your home tidy, reduce hiding spots, and don’t ignore the signs of spider activity.

For homeowners who want a professional touch, Lindsey Pest Services can inspect your property, identify problem spiders, and provide ongoing home pest control services that target spiders, the bugs they eat, and rodents!  Call or contact us online today for a free quote.

This blog was originally published on October 31, 2018; it has been updated to reflect the most up-to-date information.