The Truth About Daddy Long Legs: Are They Really Spiders? A North Atlanta Homeowner’s Guide
Are Daddy Long Legs Spiders? The Truth North Atlanta Homeowners Should Know
If you’ve ever spotted a granddaddy long leg spider scurrying across your bathroom floor or hanging out in the corner of your garage, you’ve probably wondered: “Is a granddaddy long leg a spider?” and “Are granddaddy long leg spiders poisonous?” These are some of the most common questions homeowners in North Atlanta ask us, and the answers might surprise you.
What Is a Granddaddy Long Leg?
The term “granddaddy long leg” (also called “daddy long legs”) is actually used to describe three completely different creatures, which is why there’s so much confusion about whether granddaddy long legs are spiders:
- Harvestmen (Order Opiliones) – Not actually spiders
- Cellar spiders (Family Pholcidae) – True spiders with long, thin legs
- Crane flies (Family Tipulidae) – Flying insects, not spiders at all
When most people ask “is a daddy long leg a spider,” they’re usually referring to the cellar spider, which IS a true spider and the most common long leg spider in house situations here in Georgia.
Are Granddaddy Long Leg Spiders Poisonous?
This is perhaps the biggest myth in the spider world. The short answer is: granddaddy long leg spiders are NOT poisonous to humans. Here’s why:
The Cellar Spider (True Long-Legged Spider)
- Are granddaddy long leg spiders poisonous? No, they pose virtually no threat to humans
- Their venom is designed for tiny insects, not humans
- Even if they could bite through human skin (which they rarely can), their venom wouldn’t cause harm
- They’re actually beneficial, eating other pests in your home
Harvestmen (Not Spiders)
- Is granddaddy long leg spiders poisonous? This question doesn’t even apply to harvestmen
- They don’t have venom glands at all
- They can’t bite humans
- They’re completely harmless scavengers
Types of Long Leg Spiders in North Atlanta
As pest control professionals serving the North Atlanta area, we encounter several types of long leg spiders in homes:
1. Cellar Spiders (Pholcus phalangioides)
- Granddaddy long leg spiders most commonly found indoors
- Pale yellow to light brown coloring
- Build messy, irregular webs in corners
- How big can a daddy long leg spider get? Body: 1/4 to 3/8 inch, leg span up to 2 inches
2. Long-bodied Cellar Spiders
- Similar to regular cellar spiders but with longer abdomens
- Often confused with big daddy long leg spider varieties
- Prefer dark, humid areas like basements and crawl spaces
3. Red Long Leg Spider Variations
- Some cellar spiders can appear reddish in certain lighting
- Red long leg spider sightings are usually just color variations of common cellar spiders
What Attracts Daddy Long Legs Spiders to Your Home?
Understanding what attracts daddy long legs spiders can help you prevent infestations:
- Moisture: They love humid environments like basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces
- Other insects: They follow their food source – other small pests
- Undisturbed areas: Quiet corners, storage rooms, and rarely-used spaces
- Clutter: Boxes, stored items, and debris provide hiding spots
- Poor lighting: They prefer dimly lit areas
How to Get Rid of Daddy Long Leg Spiders
If you’re dealing with long legs spiders in your North Atlanta home, here are professional tips:
DIY Prevention Methods:
- Reduce moisture – Use dehumidifiers and fix leaks
- Regular cleaning – Vacuum webs and egg sacs
- Seal entry points – Caulk cracks and gaps
- Reduce clutter – Eliminate hiding spots
- Outdoor maintenance – Keep vegetation away from your home’s foundation
When to Call Professional Pest Control:
- Large populations of granddaddy long leg spiders
- Recurring infestations despite DIY efforts
- You’re uncomfortable handling the situation yourself
- You want comprehensive pest prevention
Are Daddy Long Legs Beneficial?
While many homeowners want to get rid of daddy long leg spiders, it’s worth noting that they’re actually beneficial:
- They eat mosquitoes, flies, and other nuisance insects
- Daddy long legs are spiders that help control other pest populations
- They rarely bite humans
- They indicate a healthy ecosystem around your home
However, we understand that not everyone wants to share their living space with these eight-legged helpers, regardless of how beneficial they might be.
Professional Pest Control for Long-Legged Spiders in North Atlanta
At Covenant Pest Services, we’ve been helping North Atlanta homeowners deal with long leg spider in house situations for over 30 years. Our faith-based approach combines effective treatments with family-safe methods.
Our Approach:
- Thorough inspection to identify species and problem areas
- Targeted treatment focusing on spider hiding spots
- Moisture control recommendations to eliminate attractants
- Ongoing pest prevention to keep spiders from returning
- Family and pet-safe solutions for peace of mind
Why Choose Covenant Pest Services?
- Licensed and experienced technicians
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Exclusive discounts for first responders, veterans, seniors, and teachers
- Serving Acworth, Marietta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Kennesaw, and surrounding areas
- Faith-based integrity in every service call
Conclusion: Living with or Without Daddy Long Legs
Now that you know the truth about granddaddy long leg spiders – that they’re not poisonous and are actually beneficial – you can make an informed decision about whether to coexist with them or have them professionally removed.
Remember:
- Are daddy long legs spiders? Some are, some aren’t – but the ones in your house usually are
- Is a grand daddy long leg a spider? If it’s indoors with a web, probably yes
- Are granddaddy long legs spiders poisonous? Absolutely not to humans
If you decide you’d prefer a spider-free home, or if you’re dealing with any other pest issues, Covenant Pest Services is here to help. We serve the entire North Atlanta Metro area with reliable, faith-based pest control solutions.
Ready for a pest-free home? Call Covenant Pest Services today at (678) 437-1234 for your free estimate!
Covenant Pest Services proudly serves Acworth, Marietta, Alpharetta, Roswell, Kennesaw, and the entire North Atlanta Metro area. Our experienced, licensed technicians provide safe, effective pest control solutions backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact us today to protect your home and family.
Why Choose Covenant Pest Services?
We’re more than just pest control — we’re your local, faith-driven partner in protecting your home. With our attention to detail, personalized approach, and commitment to excellence, you’ll never fight mosquitoes alone.
📞 Call us today at (678) 437-1234 to schedule a mosquito inspection or sign up for a seasonal plan.
Because a mosquito-free yard shouldn’t be a luxury — it should be your reality.
