Also known as the funnel-web spider for the shape of its web, the hobo spider received its unique name due to its common nature of being found alongside railroad tracks. They are characterized by various shades of brown, with eight long legs and a distinct gray abdomen with yellow chevron markings. While the spider’s body is only ½ inch long, its legs can reach lengths of one to two inches long.
Hobo spiders live in dry, warm environments and prefer open fields as opposed to the inside of your home. They fear competition with other spiders, which contributes to their reluctance to go indoors.
Hobo spiders primarily eat insects like house flies and cockroaches, but will sometimes eat other spiders. Hobo spiders start their meal by first attacking their prey and then trapping it in their funnel-shaped webs. Their bodies are not designed to climb vertical walls, therefore their diet is composed of insects they can capture on ground level.
If bitten by a hobo spider, apply an ice pack to the bite, placing it on and off at ten-minute intervals. Their bites are venomous; however, they do not have much of an effect on humans. Elevate the area to reduce swelling and take an antihistamine or Benadryl to relieve itching. Clean the bite daily with soap and water to reduce the chances of an infection. One possible side effect of a hobo spider bite is slight nausea.
While uncommon, if you find that hobo spiders have moved into your home, vacuum the areas where any webs may reside. You can install sticky glue traps to catch the spiders or apply insecticide to baseboards, windows, doorways, cracks, and crevices to dispose of the spider and any insects it might feed on.
If your hobo spider infestation continues, contact Arrow Exterminators for a professional pest control plan.
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