spider

House Spiders

At one time or another, many different spider species, from jumping spiders to cellar spiders to wolf spiders and more, find their way into people's homes.

Technically, the term house spider refers to species in the Tegenaria Genus, with three common species found in the United States:

• Tegenaria agrestis - Hobo Spider
• Tegenaria domestica - Domestic or Common House Spider
• Tegenaria gigantea - Giant House Spider

The three species look very similar, with the Hobo Spider commonly considered a species of medical concern. The range of the Hobo Spider and Giant House Spider are limited mainly to the Pacific Northwest, although extended ranges to Utah and Montana are reported.

The top picture shows a Giant House Spider (Tegenaria gigantea). While they are large, up to three inches long with their legs extended, their bites are not as dangerous as the Hobo Spider. In fact, they are considered a natural predator of the Hobo Spider and their presence is considered as a natural Hobo Spider pest management remedy.

The so-called happy-face spider, which is harmless to humans, has evolved to confuse predators, scientists think.