Black Widows

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.

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.