For those who have been wondering why spiders like the basement and not the rest of the house, here’s a comprehensive deep dive. Spiders favor dark and damp places, which makes basement the ideal environment for them. Despite its sinister reputation, the basement can be interesting and habitable for different species of spiders. In this article, we’ll explore why spiders like the basement, different types of spiders that can be found there, and what homeowners can do to keep them at bay.
Why Do Spiders Like the Basement?
Spiders have a variety of reasons to prefer the basement. The environment mimics the natural habitats for many different species of spiders. Its dark, damp, and cool environment serves as the perfect shelter for spiders.
1. Moisture
The first and probably the most prominent reason why spiders prefer the basement is because it’s usually filled with moisture. Basements are generally damp, up to 70 percent of moisture in some cases. The wetness of the air helps spiders survive and is beneficial to their bodily activities such as molting, mating, and egg-laying.
2. Temperature
The temperature in a basement is usually cooler than the other rooms in a home. This makes it the perfect place for spiders. Plus the climate inside the basement is more consistent that outside, where temperatures can fluctuate drastically.
3. Shade
The basement also provides adequate shade and is considered a great escape from direct sunlight. Spiders generally eat insects that thrive in warm and sunny regions. The shade offers a good hunting opportunity for them.
Different Types of Spiders Found in the Basement
The types of spiders that you may find in the basement are dependent upon the type of web that they create. The web is an essential element for spiders and usually serves as their only refuge. Common spiders that may be found in the basement include:
1. Daddy Long Legs
Daddy long legs are very common in basements. They create a messy cobweb-like structure and have long, thin legs. Daddy long legs also have a large body size, which makes them easy to spot.
2. Wolf Spiders
Wolf spiders are large, brown-colored spiders and they are considered one of the most common spiders in many parts of Europe. They are identifiable by their huge, four-eyed face and their large bodies.
3. Jumping Spiders
Jumping spiders are very small spiders that can jump great distances and land on their feet. These spiders are identifiable by their white or blackish outer-shell color and their large eyes.
How to Keep Spiders Out of Your Basement?
Since spiders are attracted to the environment of the basement, prevention is key to keeping them out. Here are a few steps homeowners can take to avoid a spider infestation in the basement:
1. Check Cracks and Holes
Spiders can enter your home through very small cracks and holes so it is important to patch any potential entrances. Make sure to keep an eye for cracks and holes around windows, doors, and other entry points.
2. Remove Cobwebs
Regularly remove cobwebs from the basement using a vacuum cleaner or brush and dustpan. This will help to keep spiders from settling and breeding in your basement.
3. Seal Food and Trash
It’s important to seal all food and trash in order to prevent insects, which spiders feed off of, from entering the house. This will also help to keep any spiders already present in the basement from finding food.
People Also Ask
1. What Attracts Spiders to the Basement?
Spiders are attracted to the basement primarily because of the damp and cool environment. The moisture in the basement provides a suitable environment for activity and reproduction.
2. Can Spiders Climb Basement Walls?
Yes, spiders can climb basement walls. They can enter the basement from outside and climb up walls using their claws and hair.
3. Can Spiders Survive Without Food?
Yes, spiders can survive for months without food. Most spiders typically go without food for several days to weeks.
4. How Long Does it Take for a Spider to Reproduce?
It usually takes around two weeks for a spider to reproduce. However, the amount of time it takes to reproduce varies depending on the species of the spider.
5. How Do You Get Rid of Basement Spiders?
To get rid of basement spiders, homeowners should take preventive measures, such as sealing cracks around windows and doors, regularly removing cobwebs, and sealing food and trash.
Final Words
Basements are the perfect habitat for spiders for plenty of reasons. From adequate moisture to ideal temperatures, spiders can thrive in the basement. Though there are some types of spiders that make the basement their home, homeowners can take precautions to prevent a spider infestation. Regularly checking for cracks and holes, removing cobwebs, and sealing food and trash can help prevent spiders. It is important to remember that spiders can be beneficial because they help keep the insect population in check.