Are Daddy Long Legs Good Spiders to Have Around?
While often mistaken for spiders, daddy long legs (Opiliones) are actually arachnids belonging to a separate order. They are not true spiders, and their presence in your home may not necessarily be a good thing.
Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Pest Control: Daddy long legs are known to feed on small insects like flies, moths, and silverfish. This can help to keep pest populations in check around your home.
- Non-Venomous: Unlike spiders, daddy long legs lack venom glands. They are harmless to humans and will not bite.
- Easy to Control: They are not aggressive and will generally avoid humans. If you find them in your home, you can easily catch and release them outside.
Cons:
- Not as Efficient as Spiders: Although they do eat some pests, daddy long legs are not as efficient hunters as spiders. Their diet mainly consists of dead insects and they are not as quick to catch live prey.
- Can Be Nuisance: While harmless, they can be a nuisance if they gather in large numbers. They are often found in dark, damp areas like basements, attics, and bathrooms which can be unappealing for some.
- Can Cause Allergies: Some people can be allergic to the exoskeletons of daddy long legs. This can cause allergic reactions like skin rashes or respiratory problems.
Overall:
While daddy long legs are harmless and do have some benefits, they are not as effective at controlling pests as spiders. If you find them in your home, you can either catch and release them or simply leave them alone. However, if they are causing you discomfort or you are allergic to them, you may want to consider taking steps to control their population.
Remember:
If you are unsure about a specific arachnid in your home, it is always best to contact a pest control professional for identification and advice.
