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Black Widow Spiders

What are black widow spiders?

Black widow spiders are a species of spider found all over the world. They get their name from the belief that the females eat the males after mating, but that rarely happens in real life. Black widow spiders are shiny black spiders that grow to about 1 ½ inches long. Their most distinctive feature is the red hourglass shape on their underside.

 

Are black widow spiders dangerous?

Black widows are the most poisonous spiders in the Utah. Their venom is fifteen times stronger than rattlesnake venom. Although they are reclusive spiders that prefer to stay hidden and keep to themselves, they will bite if provoked. Black widow spider bites can cause serious health problems, and although rare, they can also cause death. Symptoms of a black widow bite include muscle aches, nausea, and difficulty breathing. If you get bitten, you should seek medical attention as a precaution.

Why do I have a black widow spider problem?

Black widow spiders like to live in quiet seclusion, so they often end up in basements or storage rooms, hidden behind or within boxes. They create webs in these places in order to hunt for food (insects).

Where will I find black widow spiders?

Black widows look for dark, dry areas to live. They can often be found in sheds, crawl spaces, wood piles, and basements. One sign of a black widow infestation is the large, irregular webs they build. Their webs are often down close to the ground rather than up in high places.

 

How do I get rid of black widow spiders?

Because of the dangers they present, professional treatment is always recommended when it comes to removing black widow spiders. Pickett Pest Control can take care of your black widow problem, returning your home to a safe place. To learn more about our effective pest control options, please reach out to us!

 

How can I prevent black widow spiders in the future?

There are a few ways to prevent black widows from choosing your home to invade:

  • Reduce clutter in your basement and storage areas. If these spiders have nowhere to hide, they won’t want to stay there.

  • Seal all cracks and openings around your house to prevent black widows from getting inside.

  • Store firewood a safe distance away from your house and keep it up off the ground.