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So, what exactly are we warning you about?

Let’s start with one of the most commonly overlooked threats: the brown recluse spider. At first glance, this spider doesn’t look particularly menacing. It’s small, brown, and usually hides in quiet, dark corners like closets, basements, or behind furniture. But don’t be fooled—its bite can cause severe skin necrosis, intense pain, and even systemic reactions.

The scariest part? Many people don’t even realize they’ve been bitten until hours later, when symptoms begin to escalate. If you ever spot a spider with a violin-shaped marking on its back, it’s time to back away and call pest control—don’t try to capture or kill it yourself.

But spiders aren’t the only concern.

Another dangerous intruder that can find its way into homes—especially in warmer climates—is the coral snake. Known for its bright red, yellow, and black bands, this colorful serpent is also highly venomous. It’s often mistaken for its non-venomous lookalike, the king snake, which has a similar pattern.

 The rhyme “Red touch yellow, kill a fellow; red touch black, friend of Jack” helps distinguish the two, but when you’re startled, you may not have time to recite poetry. If you see a snake indoors and aren’t 100% sure what it is, keep your distance and alert animal control immediately.

And then there’s the stuff that doesn’t crawl at all—yet is equally dangerous.

Ever noticed an odd-looking growth on your walls or ceilings that smells musty and spreads quickly? That could be 

black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum), and it’s not just an eyesore. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious respiratory problems, especially in children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

 Symptoms can include coughing, sneezing, skin rashes, chronic fatigue, and even neurological issues. If you suspect black mold in your home, resist the urge to scrub it off yourself. Mold spores can become airborne and even more hazardous when disturbed. It’s best to have a professional inspect and remediate it.