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SPIDERS!  Are those halloween decorations, or spiders invading your home?

In this blog
  • Why spider activity increases in the fall and what attracts them indoors
  • Common East Tennessee spiders and how to identify them
  • Key signs that indicate a spider infestation in your home
  • Prevention tips to keep spiders from settling in
  • When to call a professional for spider control

As Halloween approaches, you might notice cobwebs and spiders popping up around your home. But before you grab your broom to sweep away what you think are festive decorations, consider this: it’s not just the spooky season—it’s also spider season in East Tennessee!

Why are there more spiders this time of year?

Late summer and early fall is peak spider activity time, especially in Knoxville. As temperatures cool, spiders seek shelter indoors where they can find warmth and easy access to food. The shorter days trigger many species to mature, which is why you might be spotting more of those large, web-spinning spiders both inside and outside your home.

In East Tennessee, common spiders like the orb-weaver, wolf spider, and the notorious brown recluse start to become more visible. While some spiders are harmless and even beneficial for controlling other pests, others—like the brown recluse—can pose a serious threat if disturbed.

Signs you might have a spider problem

  • Increased spider webs: If you’re seeing webs in corners, basements, and other quiet areas, spiders have likely set up residence.
  • Frequent spider sightings: Regularly spotting spiders in your home, especially large ones, could indicate a growing population.
  • Egg sacs: Spider egg sacs often look like tiny white or tan balls of silk and can be found in hidden spaces. One sac can release hundreds of baby spiders!

How to keep spiders out of your home

  1. Seal entry points: Spiders can crawl through even the smallest cracks or gaps around doors, windows, and foundations. Sealing these spaces can help keep them out.
  2. Declutter: Spiders love dark, cluttered areas like basements, attics, and closets. By keeping these spaces tidy, you can reduce their hiding spots.
  3. Keep outdoor lights in check: Outdoor lighting attracts insects, which in turn attract spiders. Consider using yellow or sodium vapor lights, which are less attractive to bugs, to reduce the spider buffet near your home.
  4. Regular pest control treatments: The best way to prevent a spider infestation is by scheduling regular pest control services. A professional can treat both the inside and outside of your home, targeting areas where spiders are likely to hide.

Professional help when you need it

While some spiders are just part of nature, it’s important to stay cautious about venomous species like the brown recluse or black widow, which can pose health risks to you and your family. If you’re noticing more spiders than usual or are concerned about potential threats, our pest control team in Knoxville can provide expert spider removal and prevention solutions.

Don’t let your home become a haunted house full of real spiders this season—schedule a spider inspection today!