The Hobo spider is a venomous spider species that is native to Europe and was introduced to North America in the 1930s.
The spider is also known as the aggressive house spider, and its bite is considered potentially dangerous to humans.
Identification
The Hobo spider has a distinct appearance. It has a dark brown cephalothorax (the head and thorax combined) and a lighter-colored abdomen. The males are usually smaller than the females, measuring around 8-14 mm in body length. While the females can grow up to 18 mm. They have long, hairy legs, which help them to move quickly across a variety of surfaces.
Habitat and Distribution
As mentioned earlier, the Hobo spider is native to Europe. Where it can be found in grassy areas, forests, and gardens. It was first introduced to the Pacific Northwest of the United States in the 1930s and has since spread to other areas of the country.
Hobo spiders prefer to live in dry, dark, and undisturbed places, such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
Behavior and Diet
Hobo spiders are nocturnal hunters. They prey on other spiders, insects, and small invertebrates. Where they use their venom to immobilize their prey, and then they wrap them up in silk to eat later.
These spiders are also known for their aggressive behavior, hence their name “aggressive house spider.” They are quick to bite when they feel threatened and are known to be territorial.
Venom and Health Effects
The Hobo spider’s venom contains several toxins that can cause damage to human tissues. While not all bites result in severe symptoms, some people may experience pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the bite. In some cases, the venom can also cause necrosis, which is the death of cells and tissue.
However, it is important to note that many cases of necrosis and other severe symptoms are often misattributed to Hobo spider bites, as there are other spider species that can cause similar reactions.
Prevention and Control
To prevent Hobo spider infestations, it is important to keep your home and surroundings clean and free of clutter.
If you do encounter a Hobo spider, it is best to avoid contact with it. Wear gloves when working in areas where they are commonly found, and use a vacuum cleaner or broom to remove webs and spiders from your home.
Conclusion
The Hobo spider is a venomous spider species that is native to Europe and was introduced to North America in the 1930s. While their bites can be potentially dangerous to humans, they are not usually aggressive and will only bite when they feel threatened. To prevent infestations, it is important to keep your home and surroundings clean and free of clutter, and to seal any cracks and gaps around windows and doors.
