http://news.yahoo.com/s/ac/20110304/...sting_your_car
An unusual auto recall is in the news this week, affecting 65,000 2009 and 2010 Mazda6's. The Mazda recall report is so unusual, it could be mistaken for a "news of the weird" entry. Reason for the recall? The Mazda6 is susceptible to yellow sac spider infestations.
Why Spiders Prefer Mazdas
Ecorazzi explained why the yellow sac spider selectively targets Mazda6s. That model car has dual rear emission pipes, a particularly attractive enticement to a spider species partial to gasoline fumes, specifically the hydrogen oxide component.
Once in the emissions system, the spiders build nests which could potentially crack the fuel tank, Mazda says. That's why it's recalling the cars.
Car Fix to Deter Spiders
Mazda plans to make the recalled vehicles less spider-friendly. Its two-part fix consists of an inspection and cleaning to remove any spider nests and installation of a spider-deterrent vent.
The recalls should start about March 25. Until then, here's what you need to know about the spiders that may be hitching a ride in your emissions system:
Yellow Sac Spider at a Glance
The yellow sac spider is native to the eastern United States. This spider bites first and asks questions later. Well, maybe it doesn't ask questions but it does bite at the slightest suspicion of a threat. About one-quarter inch in length and pale yellow in color, the yellow sac spider is responsible for more spider bites than any other spider in the United States.
The yellow sac is a nighttime hunter, typically remaining in its silk sac during the day.
Identifying a Yellow Sac Spider Bite
A yellow sac spider bite looks like the bite of a more dangerous relative, the poisonous brown recluse. Because the bites can be confused, medical attention is advisable for anyone suffering a stealth attack by the critter.
The intense, stinging pain of a yellow sac spider bite is similar to that of a hornet. While its bite is painful, its venom isn't usually dangerous. A yellow sac spider bite causes a reddened, hard patch up to several inches in diameter with a white pustule at the center. The swelling usually dissipates within two hours of the bite.
Yellow Sac Spider Hangouts
Until this week when the yellow sac spider's unusual penchant for nesting in Mazda6 emissions systems made the news, their hangouts were considered similar to those of other outdoor spider species. The yellow sac spider - when it's not in your Mazda- is prone to nesting under tree bark, stones and logs. It is also content to share the comfort of your home as the weather turns cold, making its nest along the baseboards, on ceilings and hidden behind furniture.
http://prometheus.med.utah.edu/~bwjo...c%20Spider.jpg 