Long-bodied cellar spiders, commonly known as Daddy Long Legs, are a familiar sight in McKinney, TX. These delicate creatures often provoke curiosity and myths due to their unique appearance and behavior. In this article, we will debunk three common myths about Daddy Long Legs in McKinney, and shed some light on these fascinating arachnids.
Myth 1: Long-Bodied Cellar Spiders are the most venomous spiders in the world
One of the most persistent myths about Daddy Long Legs is that they possess highly toxic venom, but their fangs are too small to penetrate human skin. In reality, Daddy Long Legs do produce venom, but it is not harmful to humans. Their venom is primarily used to immobilize their prey, which consists of insects and other small invertebrates. So, rest assured, these spiders are not a threat to humans in McKinney.
Myth 2: Daddy Long Legs are not spiders
Another common misconception is that Daddy Long Legs are not actually spiders. While they may look different from other spider species, Daddy Long Legs belong to the arachnid family and are indeed spiders. They are classified under the order Opiliones, while true spiders belong to the order Araneae. Daddy Long Legs have elongated bodies and incredibly long legs, which give them their distinctive appearance.
Myth 3: Daddy Long Legs are effective pest control
It is often believed that Daddy Long Legs are beneficial to have around the house because they help control other pest populations. While it is true that Daddy Long Legs feed on insects, their diet primarily consists of small prey like mosquitoes, flies, and ants. They are not effective at controlling more significant pest infestations, such as cockroaches or termites. Therefore, relying solely on Daddy Long Legs for pest control in McKinney, may not be sufficient.
