As I was unrolling lights this afternoon, I got down to the last strand and saw a little 8-legged stowaway. I shook it into a bag and checked into what it was. I diagnosed it as a Parson Spider. On Spiderzrule.com this is what it says about parson spiders:
The parson spider is a nuisance in homes and is generally non-toxic; although some people may experience allergic reactions to the bites. The parson spider is about 1/2 inch long and may vary in colour from brown to black. The front segment of the body tends to be a chestnut colour, while the abdomen is greyish with a distinctive white or pink pattern along its middle. The body is covered with fine hairs, giving a velvety appearance. The parson spider is usually found outdoors under rocks or in piles of brush or firewood. This spider does not spin a web, but wanders on the ground in search of prey. Indoors, this spider wanders about at night and conceals itself beneath objects or in clothing during the day. Most bites from this spider occur at night or when it is trapped in clothing. While the parson spider is not considered venomous, bite symptoms are variable in severity. Some people may experience localized allergic swelling and itching in addition to initial pain. A few persons may experience excessive swelling, nervousness, nausea, sweating and elevated temperatures from the bites.
You thought the biggest risks involved in lighting a tree were electrocution or falling from the ladder, didn't you? Beware of those bins stored in the garage all summer - danger lurks!
Are you kidding me?? You "shook it into a bag" and investigated?
ReplyDeleteIf I see a spider, my immediate reaction is to close my eyes are start whamming the general vicinity with the biggest shoe I can find. By the time I'm done, there is very little left to identify.