Tulsa, Oklahoma, like many areas, is home to a variety of spider species. While most are harmless and even beneficial to the ecosystem (controlling insect populations!), some can be a nuisance or even pose a risk. Knowing which spiders are common in your area can help you identify them and understand what (if any) action you should take. Here are 5 common spiders you might encounter in Tulsa:
- Common House Spider (Achaearanea tepidariorum): These spiders are very common indoors and outdoors. They build messy, irregular webs in corners, under furniture, and in other sheltered areas. They are generally light brown or grayish and have a rounded abdomen. While they might look a bit messy, they are harmless and help control indoor pests.
- Wolf Spiders (Various species): Wolf spiders are ground-dwelling hunters that don’t build webs to catch prey. They are typically brown or gray with stripes or markings and are known for their speed and agility. They are quite large and can be intimidating, but they are generally not aggressive towards humans. You’ll often see them scurrying across the floor or hiding under rocks and debris.
- Southern Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus mactans): While not as prevalent as other spiders, black widows are found in Oklahoma. They are easily identifiable by their shiny black body and the characteristic red hourglass marking on their abdomen (though sometimes this marking can be an orange or yellow spot, or even absent). Black widow bites can be serious, so it’s important to exercise caution. They prefer sheltered areas like woodpiles, sheds, and undisturbed corners.
- Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa): Similar to the black widow, the brown recluse is another spider to be aware of in Tulsa. They are brown with a violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (head and midsection). Brown recluse bites can also cause severe reactions, though often not as immediately noticeable as a black widow bite. They prefer to live in secluded areas like closets, boxes, and under piles of debris.
- Garden Spiders (Various species, including Yellow Garden Spider – Argiope aurantia): These brightly colored spiders are common in gardens and fields. They build large, circular webs with a characteristic zigzag pattern (stabilimentum). While they might look intimidating due to their size and bright colors, they are harmless and beneficial, catching many insect pests. The Yellow Garden Spider is particularly striking with its bright yellow and black markings.
Important Note: While this blog covers some common spiders in Tulsa, it’s not exhaustive. If you are concerned about a spider bite, seek medical attention immediately. If you are unsure about the identification of a spider, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid handling it.
Tips for Avoiding Spider Bites:
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
- Wear gloves when gardening or working in areas where spiders might be present.
- Shake out clothing and shoes before wearing them, especially if they have been stored for a while.
- Seal any cracks or openings in your home’s foundation and around windows and doors.
By being aware of these 5 common spiders in Tulsa OK and taking some simple precautions, you can coexist peacefully with these fascinating creatures. Have you encountered any of these spiders in Tulsa? Share your experiences in the comments below!