Black widows are the most venomous spiders in North America. Their venom is about 15 times stronger than rattlesnake venom. They use a chemical called alpha-latrotoxin which overwhelms the nerve cells and causes intense pain. This causes human nerve cells to dump all it’s signaling chemicals at once! The bite can then begin the onset of swelling, severe cramping, sweating and chills. Female widow spiders have unusually large venom glands and their bite can be particularly harmful. Black widows don’t usually transmit enough venom to kill a healthy adult, but can be more severe in a child or elderly person.
The black widow has a unique appearance. They are usually shiny black in color and have red hourglass markings on the underside of their abdomens. The bright red markings signal danger to predators and attackers. The male widow spiders’ bodies are usually about 3 to 10 mm, their legs are longer in proportion to the female’s and are marked by orange and brown at the joints. The females are larger and can measure 13 mm. The patterns on females are less brightly colored and have less fine patterns.
Widows favor dark, secluded areas. The dimly lit locations in your garage, basement, or closet provide an ideal place for these pest to make a home. They do not make their presence known. Widow are shy and nocturnal so you may have them long before you are aware. Winter doesn’t kill the widow spiders, they hunker down until the weather warms up and they become active again to mate.
If you think you may have black widow spiders in your home, shed or yard, call All Star Pest Control at 316.854.3096 immediately. You don’t want a surprise bite from these little critters.
