Pest Education • DFW Pest Control
Daddy Long Legs in DFW
Daddy long legs are harmless arachnids, and the famous 'most venomous' myth is simply false. Here's what they really are.
Reviewed and updated June 2026
At a Glance
Daddy long legs are harmless arachnids that eat tiny insects and decaying matter. They are not dangerous, and the venom myth is a myth.
Quick Facts
- What: Harvestmen (and cellar spiders share the name)
- Venom myth: False; harvestmen have no venom glands
- Eats: Tiny insects, mites, decaying matter
- Concern: None; a beneficial nuisance at most
What Are Daddy Long Legs?
"Daddy long legs" refers to a few different long-legged creatures, most often harvestmen, which are arachnids but not true spiders, and sometimes cellar spiders. Either way, they are harmless to people.
The popular claim that they are the most venomous animal but cannot bite is a myth: harvestmen have no venom glands at all, and cellar spiders are not dangerous to humans.
Should You Control Them?
Daddy long legs are beneficial, feeding on small insects, mites, and decaying matter, so they rarely warrant treatment. If numbers indoors bother you, simple steps are enough.
- Remove webs (from cellar spiders) with regular dusting and vacuuming.
- Reduce clutter and moisture in basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
- Seal gaps and reduce the small insects they feed on.
- No special spraying is needed for these harmless arachnids.
Treatments are selected and applied per their labels. Tell us about children, pets, edible gardens, beehives, and other sensitive areas before service, and follow all preparation and re-entry instructions. More on pet- and pollinator-conscious treatment →
Common Questions
Are daddy long legs poisonous?
No. The widespread claim is a myth. Harvestmen have no venom glands, and cellar spiders that share the name are not dangerous to people.
Should I get rid of daddy long legs?
Usually no. They are harmless and beneficial. If they are a nuisance indoors, dusting away webs, reducing clutter and moisture, and sealing gaps is enough.
Why do I have so many in my garage?
They gather in cool, damp, undisturbed spots and follow small prey insects. Reducing moisture, clutter, and prey lowers their numbers.
Sources & Further Reading
Guidance changes over time. Follow current product labels and local recommendations. This page is educational and is not medical advice.
Have a Pest Question?
Call or email for a free estimate. We’ll recommend an approach that fits your property.