Spiders

Spiders have an ominous, but often undeserved reputation.  Though most spiders are venomous and considered predators, of the thousands of species found in Canada, few are actually considered a health threat.  In fact, spiders are actually helpful in controlling other pests in the home or garden since they feed on other insects and spiders.  They generally bite and inject venom into their prey.  Spiders, however, rarely bite humans. 

Although spiders are often unpopular, the venom of most species is not very toxic to humans, usually resulting in no more than a slight swelling, inflammation, or itching sensation. Most spiders’ fangs are too small or weak to puncture human skin. Spiders usually will not attempt to bite unless accidentally trapped against the skin or grasped, although some species actively guard their egg sacs or young.