While the instinct to release a house spider outside may come from a place of compassion, it is essential to consider the specific needs and origins of the spider in question. Sometimes, you might be doing a lot more harm than good by doing this deed.
The “Humane” Approach: Relocating A House Spider Outside
Among the various insects that might infiltrate your home, spiders are often considered the lesser of many evils, primarily because they help control the population of other bugs. Despite this, many people harbor a deep-seated fear of spiders, which can lead to desperate measures to remove these eight-legged creatures from their living spaces. While some might opt for the quick, albeit lethal, method of squashing them, others prefer what they believe to be a more humane approach: capturing the spider and releasing it outside.
The Reality of Outdoor Survival For A House Spider
The common tactic of trapping a spider under a glass, sliding a piece of paper beneath it, and then releasing it outside seems like a kind and ethical solution. However, this act of mercy might actually doom the spider, especially if it is a house spider accustomed to the indoor environment. House spiders, which have adapted to living indoors, often struggle to survive the harsh conditions outside, including temperature fluctuations, predators, and a lack of familiar resources.
Identifying House Spiders vs. Outdoor Spiders
Understanding whether a spider is a house spider or an outdoor spider is crucial in determining its fate once relocated. House spiders, such as the common domestic species, have evolved to thrive in the sheltered, stable conditions found inside homes. Conversely, spiders that wander indoors from outside can generally handle being put back into their natural habitat. Arachnid curator Rod Crawford emphasizes the importance of identifying the spider’s origin before deciding to evict it. He suggests that spiders native to your area are more likely to survive outdoor conditions compared to house spiders.
Alternative Solutions: Relocation Within the Home
Instead of releasing spiders outside, Crawford proposes a different approach: relocating them to another part of your home where you are less likely to encounter them. This method allows spiders to continue their beneficial role in pest control without facing the potentially lethal consequences of being thrown into an unfamiliar and hostile environment. For example, transferring a spider to a basement, garage, or other less-trafficked areas can be a win-win solution, reducing your chances of future encounters while keeping the spider alive.
Preventing Future Spider Encounters
To minimize spider invasions, preventive measures can be highly effective. Sealing gaps and cracks in your home’s structure can significantly reduce the number of spiders and other insects that find their way inside. Ensuring that windows and doors are properly sealed and inspecting items brought into the home can also help keep unwanted arachnids at bay. By addressing these entry points, you can create a more spider-proof environment and potentially reduce the need to relocate spiders altogether.
