When it comes to spiders, most folks aren’t the biggest fans. After all, they’re creepy, they’re crawly, and they can inflict painful bites if they come into contact with skin. However, if there is one spider that stands out among the rest as the most detested, it is probably the black widow spider.
If there’s ever a spider whose reputation precedes it, it is the black widow. Whether it’s the menacing red hourglass on the abdomens of females or the moniker “most dangerous spider in North America,” everyone has likely heard at least one thing about these notorious pests.
While “most dangerous spider” is a relative term, it doesn’t mean you want these spiders to invade anywhere on your Orange County property. That’s why it is important to know the best methods for spider prevention and also what to do should you be bitten by a black widow.
Identifying Black Widow Spiders
Black widow spiders typically grow to between 1 ½ to 1 3/8th inch in length. They are predominantly black, but the females feature a red hourglass on their abdomens. Young black widows are usually orange and white and become blacker as they mature.
Black widows prefer dry, dark locations. They will usually build their webs in cluttered areas that are close to the ground to better catch their prey. Outside, black widows might be found under decks, in woodpiles, beneath grills, or in sheds. Inside, black widows will usually build their webs in basements, attics, garages, and crawl spaces.
The Dangers Of Black Widow Spiders
Black widow spiders are venomous. In fact, some claim black widows to be fifteen times more venomous than rattlesnakes. Black widows have been known to bite under certain circumstances and you are more likely to be bitten by a female than a male. They usually only bite if they are disturbed or if they are protecting their eggs. Moreover, they prefer to use their venom on prey so, even if you are bitten, you might not be in danger.
Black widow bites have been known to kill people. Although this is uncommon, it does happen. For this reason, every black widow bite must be treated as an emergency. If you or a loved one is bitten by a black widow, seek medical attention immediately. It is not worth risking.
Black Widow Prevention
Because black widow spider bites can be fatal, you should do everything in your power to prevent them from invading your property and home. This means removing areas that are appealing for them to build their webs, as well as possible food sources. To do this you must take steps to keep other pests out of your home.
For black widow spider prevention:
- Reduce clutter in basement and crawl spaces.
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors.
- Install window and door screens.
- Mend any holes in currently installed screens.
- Keep firewood piles away from your home.
- Take out the trash regularly.
- Store trash in tightly-sealed trash bins.
If you can accomplish these, you should be able to limit your exposure to black widow spiders.
What To Do If Black Widows Infest Your Home
If you find yourself dealing with a black widow infestation, or if you have questions about black widow prevention, contact the professionals here Admiral Pest Control.
Here at Admiral Pest Control, we have the requisite experience and expertise to deal with any spider infestation that you may be facing. We will also work with you to take the necessary precautions to prevent future infestations. Give us a call today.
