Most spiders are harmless, but there are a few that you’ll want avoid. The black widow spider is known for scaring people away. Though it isn’t an aggressive spider, it can bite. Keeping your distance from these spiders is best. We’ve gathered information about black widow spiders to help you identify and get rid of these pests.
What Do Black Widow Spiders Look Like?
Female black widow spiders are known for the unique hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen. Males can have the hourglass marking, but they sometimes only have spots. Females have a shiny black body while males are gray or brown. These spiders grow between 1 3/8"-1 ½". Females are typically bigger than males. Spiderlings gradually darken in color as they mature.
Where Do Black Widow Spiders Live?
These spiders can be found in the United States and throughout the world. You can spot them indoors and outside. They prefer dark, dry, and protected locations. They often build their messy, irregular webs in garages, attics, and basements. They can also be found in firewood, under stones, decks, and in sheds.
Are Black Widow Spiders Dangerous?
Black widow spiders do have toxic venom. Males don’t usually bite, and females prefer to flee. However, female black widows will bite if they are provoked. You may not notice the bite at first. However, their bites can result in a fever, pain at the bite mark, muscle pain, and increased blood pressure. If a black widow bites you, seek medical attention. Your doctor will be able to tell what treatment is needed.
What Do Black Widow Spider Bites Look Like?
You may spot two puncture wounds. The area may become red and swollen. Swelling can make it difficult to see the puncture marks.
How to Get Rid of Black Widow Spiders
Having black widow spiders crawling around your home isn’t ideal. We’ve made a list of tips to help you keep spiders away.
- Seal Entry Points: Sealing any cracks or gaps with caulk can help to keep black widows out of your home.
- Clean Your Home: Regularly vacuuming and dusting can help to keep spiders away. Don’t forget to clean around windows, in the corners of rooms, and under furniture. Black widows frequent these areas.
- Maintain Your Yard: Mow your lawn and trim foliage. Remove yard debris that can act as shelter for black widow spiders.
- Remove Clutter: Clutter in your yard creates hiding spots for spiders. Remove clutter and store your items in sealed containers.
- Properly Store Firewood: Black widow spiders hide in firewood. Keep firewood stored away from the house and off the ground.
- Create a Protective Barrier: Spraying the perimeter of your yard and home with a plant-based insecticide spray can help deter pests. Our Yard Bug Spray kills pests on contact and provides residual repellency. You can also spray common entry points with our Home Bug Spray.
- Use a Plant-Based Insecticide Dust: Our Spider & Insect Dust kills spiders on contact and has repellent properties.
Black widow spiders can leave you with a painful bite. It’s always best to take precautions to avoid these pests. If spiders or other pests are bugging you, we’re here to help! For a more environmentally and family-friendly solution, check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.