Mosquito Bites vs. Spider Bites

How to Tell the Difference


woman itching mosquito bite

Does that pink bump that just appeared on your leg have you asking, “What bit me?” Mosquito bites and spider bites share some similarities, but there are a couple of clues to help you figure out what bit you:

Table of Contents

Mosquito Bites

Why they bite: Mosquitos bite with a purpose; the females require blood to develop and lay eggs.

Symptoms:

  • A round, pink or red skin bump
  • Itchiness at the bite site
  • One bite mark at the wound site

Why you need to know: While the itching might be annoying, a mosquito bite is often harmless. Mosquito-transferred viruses—like Zika and West Nile—are uncommon in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey but very serious. Symptoms show up between a few days and a couple of weeks after the itchy bump appears. If you have any adverse side effects you think are related to a mosquito bite, you should consult your doctor.

The timing: Mosquitos are most active during dusk, though you may get bit any time of day. When the temperature reaches 50 degrees, mosquitos may start to appear, but you’ll see them the most when the temperature rises significantly during the summer.

Spider Bites

Why they bite: Most often, spiders bite humans out of defense.

Symptoms: Like mosquito bites, most spider bites are harmless and only cause minor symptoms, including:

  • Red skin where bit
  • Swelling
  • Soreness or pain at the bite site
  • Two bite marks at the bite site

What you need to know: Though uncommon, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to a spider bite, and you should seek medical attention right away if you have any breathing problems, swallowing difficulties, or facial swelling. Bites from the feared brown recluse and black widow spiders are serious and can cause a severe reaction. Within eight hours, you may experience muscle pain and rigidity, stomach and back pain, nausea, or breathing problems. Medical attention is required immediately.

The timing: Spiders are around you all year long—whether or not you see them! House spiders tend to be most visible during late summer and early autumn. While it may seem like they are coming in to escape the cooling weather, they have likely been hiding in your home all along and the males are coming out to find a mate.

mosquito versus spider bite

The bottom line: If you want to know what bit you, ask yourself: Does it itch or is it painful, and what time of year is it? While you may never know what the answer is, mosquito bites itch, and spider bites are often sore or painful. Plus, mosquitos are most active during the summer months while you might find yourself with a spider bite any time of year.

We Offer Unparalleled Mosquito and Spider Control

Green Pest Solutions offers a six-application mosquito program designed to keep you and your loved ones safe from mosquito bites. And of course, our pest control services will keep spiders at bay, all night and all day. Call us today at 877-636-9469 to schedule a free estimate. We inspect your property for potential breeding grounds or existing problem areas and give you a quote for our mosquito services.


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Guide to Mosquitoes

Guide to Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can ruin a summer barbecue and transmit nasty diseases in the process. Learn the conditions that mosquitoes prefer and steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from their bite.