I’m not a fan of creepy crawlers—especially when they are indoors with me.
For someone who is such a huge fan of Charlotte, as in the book Charlotte’s Web, one would think I’d be more tolerant of arachnids. But for some reason my fondness for Charlotte has not easily translated to affection for her cousins.
A Huntsman spider in Todos Santos, Mexico. (Image: Kathryn Reed)
In fact, my first inclination when I see a spider indoors is to make sure it’s gone forever. I’m not saying this is the best course of action. Spiders are usually harmless; tending to make their way indoors for food, shelter and moisture.
“The number one reason any predator, including a spider, takes up residence is the availability of food. Spiders are carnivores, and their diet consists mainly of other insects and arthropods. If your home has a population of other pests, you are essentially setting a banquet table for spiders,” according to Brooks Pest Solutions.
The Huntsman spider is rather popular in Baja, at least in Todos Santos. It’s HUGE. OK, bigger than spiders I’m used to. But it’s nothing compared to a new species of spider discovered in Baja California Sur in 2013. That hairy thing would have me screaming, running and maybe never returning to wherever I saw it.
A Huntsman is typically 3-6 inches across. Big in my world when it comes to creepy critters.
“Huntsman do not weave webs like other spiders to catch their food. Instead, they will patiently wait for insects, then pounce when the time is right, or in some cases make use of their speed and run-down their victims,” according to the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife. “They feed at night and mostly on insects and other invertebrates. The cockroach is a particular favorite, so if your house is a refuge for roaches, Huntsman make a great natural insecticide.”
My friend warned me I was bound to see one in while staying in her casita in Todos Santos. I did. Twice. I jumped the first time. Smiled the second.
It almost felt comforting living with spiders who were clearly friends of Charlotte’s.
Well done my friend! 😉
May we all live in peace.
I’ve started following a group of jumping spider breeders on social media in an attempt to desensitize myself. I think it’s helping…
Wow – what a change of heart! This, despite I completely get the charm of Charlotte’s Web, also a fave for me. My mom reminded me how happy I was to discover it in school. Stillllll, I’m not sure I could be desensitized.