Ants are no stranger to homeowners in Texas and are a common pest. They are a nuisance and can cause extreme damage if allowed to run rampant. Additionally, you may have noticed spiders aren’t exactly rare here either. This begs the question, “What happens when the two run into each other?”. Many homeowners are curious if spiders are able to eat house ants and today, we will answer that question to fill you in on just that.
Ants & Types Of Spiders In North Texas
Ants are insects that thrive in colonies and come in various species. Although we consider ants as pests, certain spiders consider them to be a nutritious and tasty meal.
- Spiders you may find on your Texas property include species such as the wolf spider, black widow, brown recluse spider, common house and cellar spider, hobo spider, brown and black house spiders, and yellow sac spiders.
- Most are harmless and live solitary lifestyles away from humans as much as possible. Of all the spiders listed, you should be extremely cautious of the wolf spider, brown recluse spider, and black widow spider because they are harmful to humans.
Spider Hunting Tactics
- Spiders are predators, however, their diets mainly consist of insects, especially the ones around your home.
- Black widow spiders are notorious for hunting ants by pouncing on them as soon as an opportunity arises.
- Other species also prey by waiting for the perfect moment to pounce for their next bite to eat. Most spiders use their strong silk webs to trap insects and store them for food.
- They carefully construct a web and patiently wait for their prey to fall into their trap. Once an insect is stuck, it sends a vibration across the net alerting the spider of the trapped victim.
Spiders are tremendously useful because they serve as free pest control in and around your home. They are especially helpful in keeping fire ants away which is beneficial to Texas lawns. For that reason, it’s best to leave them be.
Chorbie Is Here To Help!
Spiders are often perceived as scary to some homeowners, but in reality, they just want to be left alone. If you notice what you think may be too many of these eight-legged bugs around your home, don’t hesitate to call Chorbie. Our experts are always available to come and inspect the issue our homeowners have and offer assistance, so contact us today!
