Spider infestation is never a good thing. The abnormally populous presence of spiders at home or at work can be a nuisance.
Although these insects eat unwanted insects such as ants, flies, mosquitoes, and bees, spiders are still a part of a food chain that makes them prey too. It’s important to understand what eats spiders and how spiders fit into your local ecosystem. This way, you can make smart decisions about which ones to keep and when to call for help from pest control experts.
Animals That Feed on Spiders
Spiders are still important in your local ecosystem. Here are some animals that feed on spiders as part of their diet:
1. Birds
Many bird species include spiders in their diet. Some birds, like the black-capped chickadee, robins, wrens, bluebirds, and the blue tit, actively search for spiders to consume. These birds will often catch spiders in their webs or on the ground.
2. Scorpions and Centipedes
Certain species of centipedes are predators of spiders. They are equipped with venomous claws that help them subdue and consume spiders. Scorpions also prey on spiders. Centipedes and scorpions will often overpower and kill spiders with their venom.
3. Reptiles
Some lizard species, particularly those with insectivorous diets, such as geckos, chameleons, and anoles, are common predators of spiders. They are particularly adept at catching spiders in their webs. Snakes also keep the spider population in check.
4. Insects
Certain insects, such as wasps and predatory beetles, feed on spiders. They may capture spiders and either paralyze them or consume them alive. Mantises are also predatory insects that are known to feed on spiders. They use their powerful front legs to catch and hold their prey.
5. Amphibians
Amphibians like frogs, toads, and salamanders consume spiders as part of their diet, especially smaller ones. They will often catch spiders in their mouths as they hop or crawl around.
6. Mammals
Some small mammals, such as bats, monkeys, shrews, and mice, will also eat spiders. Bats will often catch spiders in their wings as they fly around, while shrews and mice will hunt for spiders on the ground. However, this is less common compared to other groups of animals.
7. Other Spiders
Some spider species are cannibalistic and may feed on other spiders, including members of their own species. This is especially common among larger spider species such as tarantulas.
How These Predators of Spiders Help Control Spider Infestation
In addition to these natural predators, humans also sometimes eat spiders. In some cultures, spiders are considered a delicacy, and they are often fried or roasted. However, it is important to note that not all spiders are safe to eat, and some can be poisonous.
Spiders play an important role in the ecosystem, and their predators help to keep their populations in check. Without these predators, spider populations could explode, and this could have a negative impact on the environment.
It’s important to note that the specific predators of spiders can vary depending on the geographic location and the ecosystem. In California, a lot of these animals can be found.
Overall, these predators help in natural regulation of spider populations and can hugely help prevent their numbers from reaching levels that could be considered an infestation. This helps maintain ecological balance.
In addition, they also prevent over popular of spiders as they tend to have the potential to reproduce rapidly. Predators keep their numbers in check by consuming a portion of the spider population, preventing overpopulation.
In certain environments, spiders can become a nuisance when their populations become too dense. Predators help control these populations, reducing the likelihood of spiders encroaching on human living spaces and becoming a nuisance.
Seek Help from Spider Control Experts
Don’t wait for infestation to come. The presence of spiders and their webs can be a nuisance, attracting more insects to your home.
Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate spiders. We offer QualityPro-certified spider control treatments to eliminate all types of spiders. Learn more about our Spider Control and Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.
Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate.
