Woodlouse Spider

Identification

• reddish head area with cream- to gray-colored abdomen
• mouthparts and fangs protrude directly in front of the head, giving a menacing appearance
• six eyes

Nesting Habits

• under rocks, bark, trashcans, mulch, plants, wood piles, etc.
• prefer moist areas where isopods live

Diet

• isopods

Significance

• appear menacing because of their large, forward projecting mouthparts and fangs
• not known to be a health hazard
• beneficial

IPM Recommendations

• Minimize nesting habitat around property.
• Seal exterior cracks and crevices.
• Install tight-fitting door sweeps at the base of all exterior doors.
• Vacuum individuals that enter buildings.
• Step on or smash individual spiders that enter.
• Catch and release (with a glass jar) spiders found indoors.
• Change exterior lighting to sodium vapor bulbs.
• Use pest monitors to capture invading spiders, especially between August and October.
• Reduce moisture issues around buildings.
• Follow control methods for isopods to reduce or eliminate this spider’s primary food source.

Additional Resources:

IPM for Spiders: Integrated Pest Management in Sensitive Environments (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension)