About Black Widow Spider
The Black Widow is a notorious venomous spider, easily identified by the red hourglass shape on the underside of the female's shiny black abdomen. Males are smaller and lighter in color.
Behavior & Habits
They build messy, irregular webs near ground level in protected areas like woodpiles, garages, and crawl spaces. They are shy and usually only bite when provoked or trapped.
Risks & Concerns
Their venom is a potent neurotoxin that can cause severe muscle pain, cramps, and nausea. While rarely fatal to healthy adults, bites are dangerous for children and the elderly.
Prevention Tips
- Wear gloves when moving wood or debris.
- Keep outdoor areas free of clutter.
- Seal openings around pipes and utility lines.
- Inspect dark corners of garages and sheds regularly.