Spooky Spiders?

Mature female western black widow spider.

Many people think that all spiders are dangerous, scary, and aggressive. Most spiders are harmless and serve a beneficial role by catching and killing pest insects.

There are many different types of spiders inhabiting homes and gardens. In California, the main spider capable of causing serious injury is the black widow, which generally remains outdoors and out of sight. Spiders seen out in the open during the day are unlikely to bite people.

The UC Statewide IPM Program has lots of information to help you identify common spiders and know what to do if you see one. See the general info in our Pest Note: Spiders or watch our YouTube video on Common Garden Spiders.

Want to catch that spider? Watch the popular YouTube video How to Catch A Spider.

Found a black widow? Read about how to manage them from our Black Widow Pest Note.

Concerned about Brown Recluse spiders? They aren't nearly as common in California as you think.

Adult wolf spider.

Marbled cellar spider often is confused with brown recluse spider.