Spiders

[Carl]

Does anyone know how to get rid of spiders? Seem like we have tried all the different sprays on the market. So far nothing has worked. Not only do the crawl into the bunks, but the also form webs all over. Our transom is covered with black spects apparently from droppings from the nests. Hopefully someone has a quick and easy cure!

 

[Jule & Carl]

As a sailors who are also organic gardeners, we prize our wonderful spiders who are very beneficial in the garden...however, in the boat is another matter. Most likely the spray will do more harm to you than the spiders, especially in an enclosed cabin.First, figure out what kind of spiders they are - because they are not living on air alone - they must be eating something, like other bugs. Are they biting the crew? Then consult with some people who know spiders...local university, garden stores, etc. maybe they just want cover for the winter, or got in and can't figure how to get out with all that surrounding water. You can catch them in an 'intruder extruder' and put them ashore...and, hopefully, you won't have to smash the little darlings to death, because spiders are really great to have around! [They kill the 2 most deadly insects known - flies & mosquitoes, which carry deadly diseases.]

 

[toomas oja]

Spiders are your friends

All of us have spiders in our boats. See them as your friend. They take care of (=kills & eats) all of those other bugs, that you don't want to see either.If a spider gets too friendly, move it outside - gently - and be thankful.This attitude helped me and my wife.Now we say hallo to them and move them outside.(if you just can't get rid of them - make friends)Toomas

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Moth balls

Cut up your wife's old panty hose to make mesh bags...put a few in each one, and hand 'em around the boat. Not only gets rid of spiders, it drives off a bunch of insects.

 

[Charles Duhon]

Spider Hunt!

We too have a spider problem! It's a never-ending battle so here is my solution.On a calm night, arm yourself with a flashlight and a can of bug spray (the kind that has a somewhat pleasant scent) and go hunting for the large females. If you are careful and accurate just a very short burst of spray will kill them instantly! By regular spider hunts you can reduce the number of females before they reproduce, thus reducing the total munber of their offspring. While your at it eliminate the smaller ones too! If your dock neighbor upwind of you participates you should see fewer spiders because they climb the shrouds and jump/swing from boat to boat.I know this sounds cruel, but consider the reality that there are millions of spiders just down your dock! We do not have a spider shortage nor will we ever. If you reduce the number of spiders on the outside of your boat, you will see less down below, if you hunt below be sure to open your boat and let lots of fresh air in.Enjoy your hunt, it may not eliminate every spider but I guarantee you will feel better.Charles Duhon"Artistry"

 

[ken.shubert]

Flea Collars

I use the cheapest flea collars available and 3 seem to do the job on my 24' boat. One at the OB motor, which is a real hot spot for bugs, one hung on the sliding hatch and one around the mast to protect the main sail. Maybe those organic gardners are hardy souls but I don't like all those itchy welts from spider bites after a weekend of sailing. If you're really environmentally concerned, the natural predator is wasps.Yup, we got them too!KenS/V Wouff Hong