What Every Frisco Property Owner Ought To Know About Black Widow Spiders

In our area, black widow spiders are a concern. Black widows have a venom that can cause serious illness. The more you know about these spiders, the better. Today, we're going to give you all the important facts you need to avoid getting bitten and to keep these spiders out of your home.

Black Widow Identification

If you're not familiar with what a black widow spider looks like, there are a few visual characteristics that can help with identification.

• A black widow is entirely black except for a red marking.
• A black widow is visibly hairless.
• The markings on a black widow may be red, orange or yellow.
• The marking on a black widow can be found on the abdomen.
• The marking on a black widow may be in the shape of an hourglass or may appear as dots, depending on the age of the spider.
• The marking on a black widow may look like an irregular line down the center of the abdomen.
• The abdomen of a widow spider is shaped like an orb.
• A black widow may be 1 ½ to 1 ⅜ inches long.
• Males are smaller than females.

Black Widows In The Yard

When a black widow spider comes into your yard, you can expect it to hide in and around wood, brush, and leaf piles. You may also find one under your deck, stairs, and other exterior structures. The best way to avoid a black widow spider bite when you're out in your yard is to wear gloves and to be cautious. If you go underneath your deck, be sure to use a flashlight to inspect for the presence of black widow spider webs. These webs are made of strong material and constructed in an irregular manner. Keep in mind that black widows keep their egg sacs in their webs. Bites from these spiders usually occur when there is contact with a web and the female spider bites defensively to protect her eggs.