In a woman’s kitchen, mysterious black dots triggered alarm, prompting her to seek answers online. A Facebook group speculated about spider droppings, a suggestion met with skepticism. The Pest Guidance website clarified that spiders don’t leave solid excrement; instead, their droppings are liquid and resemble ink stains.

While spiders evoke fear, experts argue that other pests pose more significant health risks. Despite concerns about spiders transmitting pathogens, Melissa Gaver-Wainwright’s study at Washington State University found no identifiable bacteria in black widow spider droppings. Some spiders’ venom exhibits antibacterial properties, possibly explaining the absence of microbes.

The focus on health risks shifts towards controlling filth flies rather than spiders. While spider droppings indoors are undesirable, the study suggests they might not be as harmful as commonly believed, raising questions about misconceptions surrounding spiders and their impact on human health.