July 5, 2023

I am a Pale Daddy Longlegs spider

I was introduced in Florida from southeast Asia

I am not dangerous to humans and help control other pests

So there is no need for euthanasia. 

Update: This is a spider in the Pholcidae family, but is not necessarily a Smeringopus pallidus per Bug Guide. Need to re-research this one. 

Notes: This is an actual spider - what people up north call "Daddy Longlegs" are actually Harvestmen, in the order Opiliones. 

There is a bizarre myth that says daddy longlegs have the most potent venom in the world but their jaws aren't strong enough to bite humans. It is true that they don't bite humans, but the part about them having the most potent venom in the world is complete and utter bunk. 

Location: Captain Forster's Hammock, Jungle Trail

Sources: http://418.e25.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/ent361.pdf

https://spiders.ucr.edu/daddy-long-legs

Photo and text © 2023 Dee Fairbanks Simpson