Black Widow Spider Identification & Prevention

Frequently Asked Questions About Black Widow Spiders

What are black widow spiders?

The black widow spider is a species of spider that we identify by its shiny black color and orangish-red hourglass marking on its belly. Adult females grow to about 1 1/2 inches in diameter with extended legs. Males are much smaller than the females and are mostly brown. These spiders have eight eyes that are arranged in two rows of four. We also identify these spiders by their messy, erratic webs that they create at ground level in areas of clutter.

Keeping these spiders away from your property is best accomplished with the help of a professional that offers effective pest control in Pasadena, Maryland.

Are black widow spiders dangerous?

Female black widow spiders are dangerous; they are capable of delivering venom-filled bites that can trigger serious health problems in people. Luckily, black widow spiders aren’t aggressive. Therefore, most bites are accidental and occur after you come into accidental contact with the spiders and they feel threatened.

While bites from black widow spiders are only very rarely lethal, their venom does attack the nervous system, and if symptoms are left untreated, health problems can occur. If a black widow spider bites you or a family member, it is best to seek medical attention so a professional can treat the symptoms.

Why do I have a black widow spider problem?

Black widow spiders can become a problem in any outdoor space that offers them a suitable place to call home. Unfortunately, our Maryland backyards provide them with places to build their webs and hunt prey. Areas where these spiders hang out in our yards include play structures, sheds, garages, woodpiles, patio furniture, and under decks and patios.

The more conducive your property is to insect activity, the more likely you will experience problems with predatory pests like spiders. Overgrown vegetation, standing water, flowering vegetation, and open trashcans can draw insects and hungry black widow spiders to your property.

Where will I find black widow spiders?

The black widow spider is atype of spider that prefers to live outside in quiet, dark spaces. These spiders like living outside and typically don’t seek indoor accommodations.

However, that doesn’t mean you only need to look out for these spiders in your yard. People unintentionally transport black widow spiders into homes on firewood, furniture, potted plants, or boxes. They can also accidentally wind up in our houses while following their insect prey. Gaps under doors, vents, spaces around wires, and loose trim or siding are common entry points. 

Seek professional pest control services if you spot irregular, messy webs in or around your home or regularly see black, shiny spiders.

How do I get rid of black widow spiders?

Protect your family from dangerous black widow spiders with the help of Accutech Pest Management. Our customized home pest control plans will help you get rid of spiders and their insect prey as well as prevent their return. Don’t risk being bitten by a black widow spider; let us remove these unwanted pests for you. Your and your family’s safety is our top priority. For exceptional Pasadena pest control, call Accutech Pest Management today.

How can I prevent black widow spiders in the future?

We have compiled a helpful list of spider prevention tips to keep black widow spiders from feeling at home on your property:

• Store firewood piles and trash cans away from the exterior of your home.
• Remove clutter from your yard and storage spaces like sheds, garages, and basements.
• Reduce things that attract insects to your yard like open trash cans, standing water, and overgrown vegetation.
• Inspect the exterior of your home and repair holes, gaps, and loose trim or siding that you discover. 

For the best spider control in Pasadena, please reach out to Accutech Pest Management today.