Category: Infinite Pest Solutions

Big headed ants are the culprit to those odd looking any colonies. If you see a colony of small ants with a few of them that are larger in size and have a big head, you’re dealing with big headed ants.

Did you know that invasive species like ants cause billions of dollars in property damage worldwide every year? According to the Invasive Species Specialist Group, big headed ants (Pheidole megacephala) rank among the top 100 worst invasive species globally, wreaking havoc on ecosystems and homes alike. If you suspect you have these destructive pests, it’s important to understand why getting rid of these ants can be so challenging, and why only one treatment will not solve your big headed ant problem.

What Are Big Headed Ants?

Big headed ants are small but formidable insects, measuring between 2 and 4 millimeters in length. They get their name from the soldier ants’ disproportionately large heads, which can be nearly half the size of their bodies. Their coloration ranges from red-brown to black, and they have distinct physical traits including two spines on their waists and long, sparse hairs covering their bodies.

What sets big headed ants apart from other ant species is their complex social structure. Unlike many ants that defend a single nest, big headed ants form “super colonies” — networks of interconnected nests that cooperate for food gathering, defense, and reproduction. Each colony can have multiple queens, allowing rapid growth and spread over large areas.

How Large Can Their Colonies Get?

Big headed ant colonies can be massive. With multiple queens laying eggs simultaneously and nests linked underground or through surface tunnels, these super colonies can span yards or even acres. This expansive network makes eradication difficult, as killing ants in one nest often leaves others untouched, allowing the infestation to rebound quickly.

Where Are Big Headed Ants Found In and Around Homes?

These ants prefer warm, moist environments and often build their nests in soil—underneath shrubs, garden mulch, or stones. Unfortunately, they can also invade homes, especially through cracks and crevices near foundations or baseboards.

During a recent inspection at a customer’s home, small piles of sand and dirt were visible along the baseboards of an interior wall. Upon closer examination outside, multiple ant colonies were discovered near the foundation. It turned out to be a big headed ant infestation, with the ants infiltrating the home through those baseboard gaps. Such signs are common indicators of their presence.

Why Are Big Headed Ants So Destructive?

Big headed ants cause damage in multiple ways:

• Property Damage: Their large nests displace soil, which can weaken plant roots and even damage structures like foundations and irrigation systems.
• Ecological Impact: By aggressively competing with and displacing native ant species, they disrupt local ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Agricultural Threats: These ants tend sap-sucking insects like aphids, which harm crops, and can damage electrical equipment by nesting inside devices.

Though their bite is not considered dangerous to humans, their sheer numbers and persistence make them a serious pest problem.

Signs of a Big Headed Ant InfestationBig headed ants colonies

Be on the lookout for the following warning signs:

• Small mounds or piles of displaced soil near foundations, gardens, or even inside homes near baseboards.
• Visible ant trails along walls, floors, or outdoor surfaces.
• Discovery of multiple nests or entry points around the property.

If you notice these signs, early action is critical to prevent the colony from expanding further.

Why One Treatment Isn’t Enough

Because of big headed ants complex colony structure and rapid reproduction, they are notoriously difficult to eliminate with a single treatment. Some insecticides are ineffective against them such as over the counter products, and disturbing nests without proper control measures can cause the ants to scatter and rebuild elsewhere.

Effective management requires an integrated pest control approach that includes:

• Professional assessment to locate all colonies and entry points.
• Multiple treatment sessions using targeted baits and insecticides.
• Ongoing monitoring to ensure the colony does not reestablish.
• Preventive measures like keeping food sealed and reducing moisture.

Effective Control & Prevention Strategies

Hiring a professional pest control service is often the best way to tackle big headed ants effectively. Certified operators have the knowledge and tools to:

• Identify all the nests, including hidden outdoor colonies.
• Apply EPA approved baits and solutions safely and correctly.
• Provide advice on cleaning and home maintenance to reduce attractants.

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we specialize in comprehensive pest management plans designed to eliminate big headed ants and keep your home ant-free. Our experts follow industry best practices and tailor treatments to your specific situation.

For more tips on preventing pests in your home, check out our articles on Most Common Pest Control Questions and Types of Pests Found in Homes.

Conclusion

Big headed ants are a destructive invasive species capable of causing significant ecological and property damage. Their super, multi-queen colonies and adaptive behavior make them tough opponents for homeowners trying to eliminate them with a single treatment.

If you suspect a big headed ant infestation, act quickly and enlist Infinite Pest Solutions. Early intervention combined with a strategic treatment plan is the most effective way to protect your home and property from these persistent pests.

Key Takeways

• Black widows vs brown widows
• How to prevent black widows from making their way into your home
• The habits and risks of black widows
• Are black widow spiders aggressive?

Did you know that it is reported that the venomous black widow bite is 15 times stronger than that of a rattlesnake’s? If you live in the Sunshine State, understanding these infamous spiders can help you stay safe and calm when encountering them.

Black widows have earned a fearsome reputation, but there’s much more to these glossy black spiders with bright red hourglass markings than just danger. This guide breaks down everything Floridians should know about black widows—their appearance, habits, risks, and how to prevent them from making your home their home.

In this article, we’ll discuss where black widows live, how to identify them, and when to call for professional spider control to help keep your home and family protected.

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What Does a Black Widow Spider Look Like?

Because they prefer dark, hidden spaces, many homeowners don’t realize they have black widows until they start noticing webs or spiders around storage areas. Black widow spiders are pretty easy to spot once you know what to look for:

• Key Identification Features:
• Shiny, jet-black, rounded abdomen
• Bright red or orange hourglass marking underneath
• Female size: approx. 1.5 inches including legs
• Irregular, sticky webs in dark, undisturbed areas

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Black Widow vs. Brown Widow: How to Tell the Difference

While both species are venomous, brown widows (Latrodectus geometricus) are less aggressive and have weaker venom. Here’s how to distinguish them:

Feature	Black Widow	Brown Widow
Color	Jet black	Light to dark brown or tan
Hourglass Marking	Bright red	Orange or yellow
Egg Sac	Smooth, round	Spiky or spiny surface
Behavior	More reclusive	Found closer to human activity

Accurate identification helps in assessing risk and deciding when to call a professional.

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Where Are Black Widow Spiders Found in Florida?

Black widow spiders prefer warmer climates making Florida the perfect place to live. They also prefer areas that are undisturbed, which is why infestations often go unnoticed until spiders multiply. They are commonly found in:

• Garages and storage rooms
• Pool cages and screen enclosures
• Sheds and outdoor storage areas
• Attics and behind outdoor furniture
• Soffits, eaves, inside fan lights
  

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How Dangerous Is a Black Widow Bite?

Black widow venom contains a neurotoxin called latrotoxin, which can interfere with nerve and muscle communication. While the venom is potent, bites are rarely fatal—especially with modern medical care—but they can cause significant pain and discomfort.

Symptoms of a Black Widow Bite May Include:

• Immediate sharp pain at the bite site, sometimes spreading to nearby muscles
• Muscle cramping and stiffness lasting several hours
• Sweating, chills, restlessness, nausea, and increased heart rate
• Severe cases might involve breathing difficulty or paralysis, requiring urgent care

A Personal Story: Infinite Pest Owner’s Experience

One of the owner’s of Infinite personally suffered a black widow bite that caused excruciating pain and anxiety. The venom partially paralyzed his diaphragm, making breathing difficult and requiring immediate medical intervention. This experience highlights that while most bites are manageable, some can lead to serious complications.

Prompt medical treatment is crucial. If bitten, clean the area with soap and water, apply ice to reduce swelling, remain calm, and seek emergency care immediately. Antivenom and supportive therapies greatly reduce recovery time.

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Why Black Widow Spider Control Matters

Black widow spider control matters because having these venomous spiders around your home isn’t worth the risk. They often hide near living spaces, and without treatment, webs and egg sacs can multiply quickly, spiders can spread through garages, patios, and pool cages, and the chance of accidental bites increases. 

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we provide targeted black widow spider control for Florida homes by removing webs and egg sacs, treating high-risk areas like pool cages, garages, and entry points, and applying professional-grade products with long-lasting residual protection. If you suspect black widow activity around your property, Infinite Pest Solutions is here to help.

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Are Black Widows Aggressive?

Despite their fearsome reputation, black widows are shy and defensive rather than aggressive. They avoid humans and only bite when trapped or provoked—for example, if someone accidentally disturbs their web.

When threatened, black widows may drop from their webs, curl up, or retreat rather than attack. Bites usually occur during activities like moving firewood, cleaning sheds, or handling outdoor furniture.

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How to Prevent Black Widows Around Your Home

Prevention is the most effective way to avoid black widow encounters. Here are expert tips:

1. Keep Outdoor Areas Clean and Clutter-Free: Remove woodpiles, debris, and unused items that attract insects and provide hiding spots. Store firewood away from your home and elevate it off the ground.
2. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings around windows, doors, vents, and utility lines. Use caulk or weather stripping to block access.
3. Schedule Regular Pest Control: Professional treatments reduce insect populations and black widow habitats. Infinite Pest’s spider control services offer targeted, family-safe solutions tailored to Florida’s climate.
4. Practice Safe Yard Maintenance: Wear gloves and long sleeves when handling stored items or cleaning outdoor spaces. Shake out shoes and tools before use.
5. Manage Outdoor Lighting: Use yellow or sodium vapor bulbs that attract fewer insects, reducing the spider’s food source.
6. Avoid Disturbing Webs: Use long-handled tools or contact Infinite to remove webs safely.
7. Educate Your Family: Teach children and household members to recognize black widows and avoid unknown spiders.

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What to Do If You Find a Black Widow

If you spot a black widow, don’t attempt to handle or kill it yourself. Instead:

• Mark the area and keep people and pets away
• Contact Infinite Pest Solutions for safe removal
• Avoid spraying random chemicals that may worsen the infestation

At Infinite Pest Solutions, our trained and licensed technicians safely identify, remove, and prevent black widow infestations using eco-friendly methods that protect your family and the environment.

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When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service

If you notice multiple black widows, egg sacs, or suspect nesting sites, professional intervention is essential. Early treatment prevents infestations from growing and reduces bite risks.

Experts inspect high-risk areas like garages, sheds, and foundations, and apply environmentally responsible treatments. Regular monitoring ensures year-round protection.

Infinite’s customized plans offer peace of mind, keeping your Florida home spider-free even during peak seasons.

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Final Thoughts

The black widow is one of Florida’s most misunderstood spiders. While venomous and deserving respect, it is not an aggressive predator but a shy creature playing a crucial ecological role.

Understanding black widows’ appearance, behavior, and risks empowers you to coexist safely. If you suspect black widow activity around your property, don’t take chances—contact a professional pest control service with local expertise like Infinite.

Protect your home and family with expert spider control tailored to Florida’s unique environment. Visit Infinite spider control page today to learn more about our safe, effective solutions.

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Key Takeways

• Termites with wings are considered swarmers
• If you see wings detached, take immediate action
• Swarming termites means they are looking to start a new colony
• Observe the bodies of termite or ant to determine what it is
• Call Infinite if you see any of this activity – even if you suspect an infestation, you’re better off safe than sorry
• Winged termites don’t damage the structure, but they are the reason a new colony starts.

Winged termites are known as swarmers and are a sign of termite looking to start a new colony. If you see wings on the ground, this is an indication that they may have found the perfect location to begin growing the new colony. Understanding what these termites are, why they appear, and what steps to take can help protect your home from serious damage.

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What Are Winged Termites?

Winged termites are reproductive members of a termite colony. Their primary purpose is to leave an existing colony, establish a new one, and mate. Once they land, they shed their wings and begin endless work to build the colonies population.

When is Termite Swarming Season in Florida?

In Florida, termite swarming season begins anytime between March, April, and May and will continue through that heavy heated months. You will typically find a decrease in swarming activity around September but they can certainly extend further into the earlier fall months.

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Why Are Termites Swarming?

Swarming is a natural part of the termite life cycle. When a colony matures, it releases winged termites to reproduce and expand. While swarming termites themselves do not cause damage, their presence usually means there is a colony close by—either on your property or in a neighboring area.

If you see winged termites indoors, address this issue immediately.

Does a Termite Swarm Mean an Infestation?

Not necessarily. However, it does mean that termites are actively searching the area for a place to land and attempt to start a colony. This does not mean a colony has already been established, but it does indicate that termites are present nearby and showing interest in the area.

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How Do You Tell the Difference Between a Termite Swarm and an Ant Swarm?

Winged termites are often mistaken for flying ants. However, there are a few key differences:

• Wings: Termites have two pairs of wings that are equal in size, while ants have wings of different lengths.
• Body shape: Termites have a two part sectioned body, whereas, an ant has a three part sectioned body.
• Antennae: Termites have straight antennae, while ants have bent or elbowed antennae.

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Are Winged Termites Dangerous?

Winged termites themselves do not bite or sting, but they are a serious warning sign. Once they shed their wings and establish a colony, termites can cause extensive structural damage to your home. They will feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials 24/7.

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What Should You Do If You See Termites With Wings?

If you notice winged termites or discarded wings around windowsills, doors, or light sources, call us right away. For assistance in proper identification, keep a couple of the wings you find and store in a plastic bag so our technicians can take a close look. Avoid disturbing the insects or using store-bought sprays, as these can scatter the colony and make the problem harder to treat.

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Termite Control with Infinite Pest Solutions

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we understand how concerning it can be to see termites with wings in or around your home. Our termite services are designed to identify active colonies, assess the extent of the problem, and provide effective treatment options tailored to Florida homes.

Our approach focuses on:

• Accurate termite identification
• Thorough inspections of your home and property
• Targeted treatments to eliminate termite activity
• Long-term prevention and protection plans

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Yes, you can see bed bugs with the naked eye, but that doesn’t always make them easy to detect. One of the first questions people ask when they suspect an issue is whether bed bugs are actually visible—or if they’re too small to notice. Understanding what bed bugs look like and where they hide can help you identify a problem early and take action quickly.

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Signs of Bed Bugs Beyond Seeing Them

Many infestations are discovered not by seeing a live bed bug, but by noticing other warning signs.

Common indicators include:

• Small, rust-colored stains on bedding or mattresses
• Tiny white eggs or shed skins
• A musty or sweet odor in heavily infested areas
• Unexplained bites, often in clusters or lines

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Why Bed Bugs Are Often Missed?

Despite being visible, bed bugs are frequently overlooked due to their size, hiding behavior, and ability to blend into furniture and bedding. Early infestations may involve only a few bugs, making them especially difficult to spot without experience.

In Florida, frequent travel, hotels, apartments, and shared spaces increase the risk of bed bugs being introduced into homes without immediate detection.

Professional Bed Bug Inspections with Infinite Pest Solutions

We understand how overwhelming bed bug concerns can be. Our professional inspections are designed to identify bed bugs at all life stages, even when they’re difficult to see.

Our bed bug services focus on:

• Thorough inspections of common hiding areas
• Accurate identification of bed bug activity
• Targeted treatment plans designed for effective elimination
• Clear guidance on preparation and prevention

If you suspect bed bugs or want peace of mind, Infinite Pest Solutions is here to help. Early detection and professional treatment are key to stopping bed bugs before they spread.

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Spider control is a professional pest management service designed to reduce and prevent spider activity in and around your home. In Florida, spiders thrive year-round due to the warm climate, humidity, and abundance of insects they feed on. While most spiders are not aggressive, their presence can still be unsettling, especially when webs start appearing in corners, entryways, lanais, ceilings, and outdoor living areas.

Our spider control options vary depending on your tolerance. Do you hate the spiders in the pool cage? Are you sick of wiping down webs every other day on the lanai? Our Advanced Spider Service is for you! Want to keep the spiders out of the home and out of the doorways/soffits around the home? Our General Pest Control is just what you need!

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Do I Really Need Spider Control?

Many homeowners wonder if spider control is truly necessary. While a single spider may not be cause for concern or heavy web buildup – recurring spider activity can indicate a larger issue in warm, humid environments where pests are active year-round such as Florida.

You may benefit from spider control if:

• You regularly see spiders indoors or around entry points
• Webs reappear shortly after being removed
• Spiders are common around doors, windows, soffits, or outdoor seating areas
• You are dealing with venomous spiders such as brown or black widows
• You want added peace of mind for children, pets, or guests

Because spiders feed on other insects, their presence often signals underlying pest activity. Spider control helps break this cycle by addressing both spiders and their food sources.

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Is Spider Control Safe for Pets?

Yes. As standard precaution, pets should be kept away from treated areas until products have fully dried.

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Conclusion

Our Advanced Spider Control Services are designed specifically for Florida homes. We focus on more than just spraying – we target spider harborage areas, remove webs and egg sacs, and apply long-lasting treatments that keep you spider free.

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Just because you don’t see bugs right away doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Bugs can be great at staying out of sight, which is why many homeowners don’t realize there’s an issue until it becomes more noticeable. That’s why it is crucial to know where to look and what signs to watch out for so that you catch a problem in the early stages.

Common Places Bugs Like to Hide

Pests often look for quiet areas where they can stay undisturbed, warm, and close to a food source. Some of the most common hiding spots include:

• Under sinks and behind plumbing
• Inside cabinets and pantries
• Along baseboards and behind furniture
• In garages, attics, and laundry rooms

Signs You May Have Hidden Bugs

If you notice an increase in bug activity at night, especially in kitchens or bathrooms where food and moisture are present. Even if pests aren’t visible, they often leave behind signs of activity happening out of sight like:

• Droppings or shed skins
• Damage to food packaging or paper products
• Greasy marks along walls or baseboards
• Unusual or musty odors

Always Check the Outside Perimeter

The condition of the exterior of your home can often lead to an indoor pest problem. Making sure that these areas are well maintained helps to reduce the chance of pests making their way inside. Be sure to check for:

• Gaps around doors and windows
• Standing water near the home
• Overgrown plants touching the structure

When It’s Time to Call a Professional

If you continue noticing signs of pests or aren’t sure where they’re coming from, that is the time to call a professional. Our skilled technicians can easily identify hidden activity and help to protect your home long term. What bugs you, bugs us!

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Finding pests in your home can be unpleasant, but it’s also very common. Learning to understand how pests behave, what attracts them, and how quickly they can become a problem is key to protecting your home. Below we’re answering some of the most common pest control questions as well as clearing up common misconceptions.

What Is the Hardest Pest to Get Rid Of?

What Is the Most Common House Pest?

Some of the most common household pests that you can expect to see in your home are ants, cockroaches, spiders, and rodents. In Florida, ants and roaches tend to be especially common due to warm temperatures and humidity that allow them to thrive all year. Homes with pool cages are especially attractive to spiders, and spider control is essential for keeping them from coming back.

Why Should You Never Squish a Roach?

Squishing a cockroach can actually make things worse. Some roaches carry egg cases or bacteria that can spread when crushed. This can contaminate surfaces and, in some cases, contribute to further infestation rather than solving the problem.

Why Am I Getting Roaches If My House Is Clean?

Having a clean home helps to reduce pest activity, but it’s not a complete deterrent. Roaches are attracted to moisture, warmth, and shelter just as much as food. Leaky pipes, cluttered storage areas, or entry points around doors and windows can attract them to your home even if it is spotless.

Why Do I Have Ants If My House Is Clean?

Ants are persistent and highly organized creatures. They often enter homes searching for water or following scent trails laid by other ants. Tiny small crumbs, pet food, or moisture sources can be enough to attract them into your home regardless of how clean it is.

Why Am I Getting Bugs in the Winter?

Bugs don’t disappear in colder months, they look for shelter. As the temperature drops, many pests move indoors to escape the cold, making the winter a common time for increased indoor pest activity.

Why Are Bugs Worse at Night?

Many pests are nocturnal, which means that they are more active at night when it’s quieter and darker. This is why homeowners typically notice cockroaches, spiders, and other insects after dark as they emerge searching for food.

Why Do Bugs Come Inside When It Rains?

Heavy rain can flood pest nesting areas and force bugs to seek dry shelter. Homes provide warmth and protection, making them an easy refuge during wet weather. As a result, pest activity indoors often increases after periods of heavy rain.

How Fast Can a Pest Infestation Spread?

Infestations can grow faster than most people realize. Some pests reproduce every few weeks, meaning a small issue can turn into a major problem in a short amount of time if left untreated.

Can Pests Cause Health Problems?

Yes, absolutely. Many pests carry bacteria, allergens, and pathogens that can affect indoor air quality and health. Cockroaches, rodents like rats and mice, and some insects can trigger allergies, asthma symptoms, and contamination of food and surfaces.

How Do Pests Get Into a House in the First Place?

Pests usually enter through small cracks, gaps around doors and windows, vents, plumbing lines, and even through items brought inside. Once they find food, water, or shelter, they’ll settle in and won’t leave on their own.

How Much Is Pest Control Service Per Month?

Pest control service costs can vary depending on factors such as the type of pest, the level of activity, the size of the home, and the frequency of how many treatments are needed.

How Much Do Pest Services Cost?

The cost of pest services depends on several variables, including whether treatment is preventative or to treat an infestation, the specific pests involved, and the treatment approach used. The best value comes from thorough, long-term protection—not a quick spray.

Pests are a common issue for homeowners, but understanding why pests enter your home is important, but stopping them often requires more than DIY solutions. Professional pest control helps identify entry points, target active infestations, and prevent future issues before they escalate. Routine pest control services provide peace of mind and help keep your home protected, comfortable, and pest-free year-round.

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Banana spiders are one of the most talked-about spiders in the Southeast — mostly because of their size, bright coloring, and impressive webs. While they often look intimidating, not all “banana spiders” are the same, and most pose little threat to people.

Understanding what a banana spider is, where it lives, and how it behaves can help you feel more confident if you spot one around your property.

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What Is a Banana Spider?

“Banana spider” isn’t a scientific term. It’s a nickname used to describe several different spider species that share similar traits, such as large bodies, long legs, and the tendency to appear in gardens, wooded areas, and around homes.

The name comes from early sightings of spiders hiding in banana shipments, though many species referred to as banana spiders are native to the U.S.

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What Does a Banana Spider Look Like?

Banana spiders are typically:

• Large, with long, thin legs
  
• Yellow, orange, brown, or black in color
  
• Known for spinning large, strong webs that can stretch several feet wide
  

Some species also have distinctive markings or bright coloration that makes them easy to spot outdoors.

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Where Do Banana Spiders Live?

Most banana spiders prefer warm, humid environments, which is why they’re common in Florida and other southern states.

They are often found:

• In gardens and shrubs
  
• Near porches, fences, and outdoor lighting
  
• Along wooded edges or tree lines
  
• In tall grass or landscaping
  

Indoors sightings are rare, but they may wander closer to homes when prey is plentiful.

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What Do Banana Spiders Eat?

Banana spiders are beneficial predators. Their diet includes:

• Mosquitoes
  
• Flies
  
• Moths
  
• Other flying insects
  

Their large webs help naturally reduce insect populations around your home.

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Common Types of Spiders Called “Banana Spiders”

Several different species fall under the banana spider nickname. Here are the most common:

• Famous for its golden-colored web
  
• Common in the southeastern U.S.
  
• Large but generally non-aggressive
  

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• Highly venomous
  
• Native to Central and South America
  
• Rare in the U.S. but often mentioned due to its reputation

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• Large and fast-moving
  
• Typically found in tropical regions
  
• Often mistaken for more dangerous species
  

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• Brightly colored orb-weaver
  
• Known for decorative web patterns
  
• Non-aggressive toward humans
  

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Banana Spider Facts

• Their webs are among the strongest spider webs in the world
  
• Most banana spiders are shy and avoid human contact
  
• The majority of species are not dangerous to humans
  

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Are Banana Spiders Dangerous?

In most cases, no. While banana spiders can bite if threatened, bites are uncommon and usually mild.

Is a Banana Spider Bite Venomous?

Yes, like most spiders, banana spiders have venom — but for most species, it’s not medically significant to humans.

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Signs and Symptoms of a Banana Spider Bite

General symptoms may include:

• Mild pain or redness
  
• Swelling around the bite area
  
• Itching or irritation
  

Golden Silk Orb-Weaver Bite

• Usually mild
  
• Comparable to a bee sting
  

Hawaiian Garden Spider Bite

• Rare
  
• Minimal symptoms
  

Brazilian Wandering Spider Bite

• Medical emergency
  
• Severe pain and systemic symptoms
  (Extremely unlikely in the U.S.)
  

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Treatment for a Banana Spider Bite

If bitten:

1. Wash the area with soap and water
   
2. Apply a cold compress
   
3. Use over-the-counter pain relief if needed
   
4. Seek medical care if symptoms worsen or if the spider is suspected to be dangerous
   

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Why Banana Spiders Are Important

Despite their appearance, banana spiders are beneficial:

• They reduce insect populations
  
• They are part of a balanced ecosystem
  
• They help control pests naturally
  

However, large webs around entrances or high-traffic areas can become a nuisance.

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What to Do If You See a Banana Spider

• Avoid direct contact
  
• Do not disturb the web if possible
  
• Keep outdoor lighting reduced to limit insect attraction
  
• Trim vegetation near the home
  

If spiders are appearing frequently or creating safety concerns, professional help may be needed.

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When to Call a Pest Control Professional at Infinite

When you’re ready, we are here for you! While banana spiders don’t usually require treatment on their own, recurring spider activity may indicate a larger pest issue attracting them. 

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we can:

• Identify the spider species
• Provide eco and pet friendly treatment
  
• Reduce insect food sources
  
• Help prevent webs around entryways and living areas
  

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Final Thoughts

Banana spiders may look intimidating, but most are harmless and even helpful to ridding of other insects. Knowing the difference between species — and understanding when spider activity becomes a problem — can help homeowners protect their space without unnecessary worry.

If spider activity around your home feels out of control, spider control is for you!

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs