Black Widow Spider
Black Widow Spider Information
The black widow spider is one of the most well-known due to its distinctive appearance and venomous bite. This spider is found throughout North America with a black, rounded body with a red hourglass marking on its underside. Black widow spiders average 1-1/2 to 1-3/8 inches in size. They prefer dry, sheltered areas like woodpiles, garages, sheds, and under porches or decks. Black widows spin messy, irregular webs near ground level or in low-lying vegetation.
More about Black Widow Spiders
While the black widow's bite is rarely fatal, it can cause severe symptoms due to the neurotoxic venom. A bite causes immediate sharp pain followed by muscle cramping, nausea, sweating, and other symptoms. Children, older adults, and those with compromised health are most at risk. It's essential to seek medical attention if bitten.
Homeowners can reduce black widow encounters by removing debris and clutter where they may hide. Carefully inspect woodpiles and other storage areas. Also, check underneath appliances, furniture, and equipment that is rarely moved. Wear thick gloves when handling such items. Sealing cracks and holes can help limit their entry into homes as well.
With their distinctive markings and vicious nature, black widow spiders will remain among the most feared. But by taking proper precautions, homeowners can minimize encounters and safely remove infestations with professional exterminators' help.
If you suspect that black widow spiders have infested your property, it is important to seek help from a licensed pest control professional. Our team of knowledgeable technicians specializes in the safe and humane removal of black widows. They will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to determine the extent of the infestation and implement effective measures to eliminate the problem. Additionally, their team will provide guidance on how to prevent future infestations by maintaining a healthy spider population, which is crucial for natural pest control. You can rely on Breda Pest Management for expert assistance and education on spider control and prevention.
