Color: Black, with characteristic red “hourglass” on back
Legs: 8
Shape: Round
Size: 3/4″ length; 3/8″ in diameter
Antennae: False
Black widow spiders are best known for the red hourglass shape on their abdomen.
Black widow spiders spin their webs near ground level. They often build their webs in protected areas, such as in boxes and in firewood.
The venom of a black widow spider is a neurotoxin and is used as a defense. Black widow spiders do not instinctively bite humans. The black widow spider bite can cause severe pain. Young children and the elderly are especially susceptible to a severe reaction to a black widow spider bite.
Black widow spiders are often found around wood piles and gain entry into a structure when firewood is carried into a building. They are also found under eaves, in boxes, and in other undisturbed areas.
Avoid black widow spider bites by wearing heavy gloves when moving items stored for a long time. Spiders often hide in shoes, so check shoes and shake them out before wearing them. When spider webs are visible, use caution before putting your hands or feet in that area.
Black widows eat several insects, such as flies, mosquitoes, grasshoppers, beetles, and other small arthropods - they catch this prey by trapping them in their webs. Once caught, they use venom on their prey before wrapping it in silk and consuming it.
Natural predators of black widows include birds, lizards, frogs, and certain wasps that hunt spiders specifically. When the opportunity arises, praying mantises and other larger spiders may also prey on black widows.
Black widow spiders prefer dark, quiet areas such as garages, sheds, woodpiles, and cluttered areas with abundant insect food. Reducing clutter and sealing entry points can minimize the risk.