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DESCRIPTION
The female black widow spider (Latrodectus spp.) is a poisonous spider that has a somewhat round, shiny black abdomen with
red markings that resemble an hourglass on the underside. The size of
the body is approximately 1/2 inch wide and 1 1/2 to 1 3/8 inches long.
Despite common opinion, the female rarely kills the male after mating.
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BIOLOGY
Five different species of the black widow spider are prevalent in the United States. They generally live under
rocks and under fallen trees outside the home. In and around the house
they are often found in firewood piles, basements and
crawlspaces.
They are also found in secluded places, such as garages and sheds. They feed on insects and other
spiders that are trapped in their web. They are usually not aggressive
spiders, but if handled or accidentally touched, they may bite.
The black widow’s venom is a neurotoxin that attacks the nervous system
and may cause pain and serious illness in humans. Though the bite is
not often felt, pain will develop immediately. Reactions to the black widow’s venom include increased
body temperature and blood pressure, profuse sweating, dizziness, blurred
vision, nausea, and pain and swelling around the bite.
Antitoxin is available to combat the neurotoxin. If bitten, call a
physician or go to an emergency room immediately. If possible,
exterminate the
spider and take it along for identification purposes. Bites are rarely
fatal when promptly treated, however, small children are at greater risk.
SOLUTION
To avoid getting bitten by the black widow, wear leather gloves when working
around potential habitats. Use caution around spider webs in basements
and crawl spaces. If a black widow is encountered, contact a pest
control professional.
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Household Pests
Spiders Brown Recluse
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