Black Widow Spider

Color: Shiny black with a red hourglass marking on the underside of the abdomen

Size: Females are typically 0.5 - 1.5 inches in body length; males are smaller

Shape: Rounded abdomen with long, slender legs

What is a Black Widow Spider?

Black widow spiders are known for their distinctive appearance and potent venom. They are famous for the red hourglass shape on their underside and are one of the most recognized spiders in the world.  There are 4 different types of Widow spiders in Florida which are the southern black widow, northen black widow, red widow and the brown widow.

Where do Black Widow Spiders live?

Black widow spiders live in dark, undisturbed places. Inside homes, they are often found in basements, garages, and closets. Outdoors, they build webs in woodpiles, under rocks, and in sheds. They prefer secluded areas where they are less likely to be disturbed.

What do Black Widow Spiders eat?

Black widow spiders eat a variety of insects. Their diet includes flies, mosquitoes, beetles, and grasshoppers. They use their strong webs to catch prey, injecting venom to immobilize it before eating.

How do Black Widow Spiders behave?

Black widow spiders are shy and reclusive. They spin irregular, tangled webs in dark corners. These spiders are not aggressive and usually only bite in self-defense when threatened. Their venom is potent, and a bite can cause serious symptoms, so caution is advised.

How do Black Widow Spiders reproduce?

The female black widow spider lays eggs in a silken sac, which she attaches to her web. Each egg sac can contain hundreds of eggs. The spiderlings hatch and stay near the egg sac for a short time before dispersing to build their own webs.

How can you control Black Widow Spiders?

To control black widow spiders, keep your home and yard clean and free of clutter. Regularly check and clean dark, undisturbed areas where they might hide. Seal cracks and gaps to prevent them from entering. Professional pest control can help manage and remove these spiders safely.

Black widow spiders can be harmful to humans if they bite. Their venom can cause severe pain, muscle cramps, and other symptoms, requiring medical attention. Keeping your home and yard clean and reducing clutter can help prevent encounters with these spiders. Being cautious and respectful of their space can minimize the risk of bites.

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