Do Spiders Kill Bed Bugs?

When it comes to battling bed bugs, there is a myriad of options available. While the bed bug itself is not necessarily a bad thing, an infestation can cause psychological stress and spread to other parts of your home.

One of the best options for controlling bed bugs is to enlist the help of predators. These natural creatures are not only able to consume the insects, but they can also keep your home free of them.

Spiders are one such predator. There are many species of spiders that can kill bed bugs, and they are usually more active at night. However, not all spiders can do this, and there are plenty of exceptions.

Fortunately, the majority of spiders will bite only when threatened. That means you won’t have to worry about catching a bed bug in the act.

Although many spiders can eat bed bugs, they won’t do much to reduce the population. In fact, some spiders can cannibalize if they’re starving. The Daddy long-legs spider is a prime example.

Cockroaches are another natural predator. These insects can also kill bed bugs, and they do so with a broad diet that includes food items like leftovers, meat, and starches.

Some of the largest spiders can actually eat other insects. Those that can eat bed bugs include the philodromid crab spider and the cobweb spider.

Some spiders can even inflict a venomous bite. This isn’t the usual stinging affair, but instead a more serious numbing experience.