Spiders tend to not be quite so active during the winter. That’s quite a relief for the 3-15% of the population that suffers from arachnophobia, and those of us who may not suffer from arachnophobia, but find spiders unsettling nonetheless. In some cases, that uncomfortable feeling we get about spiders is because of a lack of understanding. For example, do you know what spiders eat?

Because of their small size and carnivorous nature, insects and bugs are on the top of the list of foods that spiders like to eat. Some of the bugs they like to eat are ones that you yourself likely won’t miss. Flies, mosquitoes, and moths can all be troublesome pests for humans. They’re also examples of insects and bugs that spiders enjoy eating. Mayflies, ants, crickets, cockroaches, gnats, fleas, and earwigs are other examples of creatures that can find themselves playing the role of a spider’s prey.

Some spiders may eat small animals. Birds, lizards, frogs, and centipedes can end up as spider food. Of course, this mostly happens to very small animals, since spiders themselves tend to be pretty small. Some spiders will even eat other spiders. This can happen after mating, which is how the black widow spider got its name, or as a part of a fight over territory.

The truth about spiders is that they really aren’t interested in interacting with us at all. They’d very much prefer to stay away from us. Of course, when you consider that the temperatures are warming and that their preferred food sources are once again becoming plentiful and active, it only makes sense that they would become more active as well. You’re bound to encounter more spiders in your home if your home is also playing host to their food. Conversely, by controlling the presence of insects, bugs, and small animals in your home, you should be able to decrease the presence of spiders.

 It’s easier to feel less uncomfortable about something when you understand it better. You may still find spiders creepy, but when you understand their important role in controlling the population of various other pests, it’s easier to feel better about them existing. Still, you don’t want them in your home, so take action to reduce their interest in making their home inside of yours. Remember, if you need help, you can always rely on the pest control experts at Proterra Pest Control.

Have you ever heard of overwintering? Click here to learn about the things you should know about overwintering insects from Proterra Pest Control.