Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs)
Pholcus phalangioides
Cellar spiders have small tan bodies (6-9mm) with extremely long, thin legs that can span 50mm or more. They build loose, irregular webs in corners and hang upside down. When disturbed, they vibrate r...
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How to Identify Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs)
Cellar spiders have small tan bodies (6-9mm) with extremely long, thin legs that can span 50mm or more. They build loose, irregular webs in corners and hang upside down.
Cellar spiders have small tan bodies (6-9mm) with extremely long, thin legs that can span 50mm or more. They build loose, irregular webs in corners and hang upside down. When disturbed, they vibrate rapidly in their web—a defensive behavior called "whirling."
Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs) Behavior & Habits
Understanding how cellar spider (daddy long legs) behave helps prevent infestations
Cellar spiders build messy, tangled webs in undisturbed areas and hang upside down waiting for prey. They're known to prey on other spiders, including black widows and hobo spiders. Old webs accumulate as they build new ones nearby rather than repairing damaged webs.
Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs) Risks & Dangers
What cellar spider (daddy long legs) can do to your health and property
Health Risks
Cellar spiders are completely harmless to humans. The myth that they're "most venomous but can't bite" is false—they can bite but rarely do, and their venom has no significant effect on humans.
Property Damage
The main issue is unsightly accumulations of old webbing in corners and ceilings.
Signs of Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs) Infestation
Look for these indicators in your home
Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs) in Boise & the Treasure Valley
Cellar spiders are found in virtually every basement and garage in Boise. They're beneficial because they prey on more dangerous spiders. Most control requests are for web removal rather than spider elimination.
How We Eliminate Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs)
Professional treatment for complete elimination
Cellar spider control involves web removal, treating harboring areas, and reducing prey populations. They're beneficial predators of other spiders, so elimination may not be desirable. Regular cleaning is often the best approach.
How to Prevent Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs)
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation
Cellar Spider (Daddy Long Legs) Questions Answered
Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment
Are daddy long legs the most venomous spider?
This is a myth. Cellar spiders can bite and their venom is not particularly potent. They're completely harmless to humans and actually prey on dangerous spiders like black widows.
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