Pest Identifier: Differences Between Spiders and Insects

They may trigger the same feelings of surprise and disgust, but there are quite a few differences between spiders and insects. From body shapes and sizes to issues they may cause in your home, discover how to determine the differences between spiders and insects that find their way into your living space. If you’ve found a pest you can’t identify, contact U.S. Pest Protection, and we’ll send our experts out as soon as we can to help you.

Physical Similarities and Differences

It’s easy to assume spiders are insects—both are considered arthropods, which means they have jointed pairs of legs, distinct body sections, and hard, protective coverings called exoskeletons. Additionally, both shed their exoskeletons as they grow. 

The similarities between spiders and insects stop there, however. While types of insects range from honey-making bees to fluttering butterflies and stinging wasps, all spiders are fanged, venom-injecting arachnids. Learn more about the differences between insects and spiders.

Antennae and Wings

Much to the relief of many people, the closest spiders will ever come to flying is catching a breeze with parachutes made from their silk. All insects, however, have wings in at least one stage of their lives. Additionally, all insects have antennae to touch, taste, or smell their environment. Spiders, on the other hand, have sensory organs in their legs.

Number of Legs

In addition to wings, all insects have three pairs of legs—six total—while spiders have four pairs. Spiders also have additional appendages near their mouths called chelicerae, which end in venomous fangs. Spiders use their chelicerae to bite their victims and pull them closer to their mouths.

Number of Eyes

Unlike spiders and their four pairs of simple eyes, insects have two compound eyes. It may seem like spiders have the advantage when it comes to vision, but insects’ compound eyes have countless lenses that allow them to see from various angles at once. 

Issues Caused by Spiders and Insects

The problems that spiders and insects can create in your house are also different. Even though they’re unpleasant to find, spiders are actually more beneficial than dangerous, as they hunt other pests. Depending on the species, however, they can leave painful bites that may lead to emergency-room trips.

In contrast, insects can cause a wide variety of issues for homeowners. From disease-carrying cockroaches to wood-gnawing termites and food-contaminating ants, insects can cause a significant number of health issues and property damage without the help of professionals.

Schedule Your Free U.S. Pest Inspection Today

Despite all their differences, spiders and insects are both unwelcome guests in your home. Whether you’re dealing with spiders, insects, or both, you can depend on U.S. Pest Protection to send them all packing.

From our knowledgeable, experienced pest professionals to our innovative pest control technology, you’ll enjoy peace of mind when you choose our services. Plus, we offer free spider and insect inspections to help you get rid of pests as soon as possible. Don’t wait for your pest problem to get worse—schedule your free inspection with U.S. Pest Protection today.