What to Do If You Find a Black Widow in Your New Castle, PA Home … And Are There More?

Black Widow Spiders are known for their venomous bites that puts most people on edge. Where black widow spiders are one of the most feared spiders, they are one of the least threatening. For those unfamiliar with black widow spiders, Stewart Termite & Pest Control will share a little more about this species and how to control and prevent black widow spiders.

Black Widow Spider Identification

Black widow spiders are known for the shiny black coloring and the red hour glass marking under their abdomen. However, it is only the females that carry the red hour glass marking and not the males. The females also have a larger abdomen than the males and are generally much bigger. Males aren’t always black like females. Male coloring can vary from dark brown, tan, to cream in color, with elaborate markings on their abdomen. The head and thorax of Black widow spiders are small compared to the rest of their body with long legs. Each species of Black Widow spider varies in appearance. However the general characteristics remain the same.

Black Widow Spider Web Pattern Design

Black widow spiders create messy webs that string from every direction. The webs are smooth and silky, making black widow webs easy to identify. Many webs look abandoned, making most people feel a little more at ease. However, most black widows hide during the day and retreat in dark holes very close to their webs. Not until the night time will you know if a web is truly occupied. Due to the nature of the black widow spider it is recommended that you avoid sticking your hands in dark places and avoid disturbing black widow hiding places. It is best to treat the problem before cleaning areas that may be home to black widows.

Black Widow Spider Bites

Unfortunately if you see one black widow, there are likely more. Females are known to be aggressive and bite in defense, especially after laying, and when guarding their eggs. The female venom is much more potent than the males. However most bites can be treated and some not even medically. It depends on the individual, and how their system reacts to the bite. It is recommended you still seek aid as a precaution. If ever bitten, attempt to find the spider that bit you for proper identification. Put ice on the bite while you seek medical aid.

Black Widow Spider Prevention

Avoid clutter or debris in your yard that black widow spiders can use to build their web and hunt. Seal all cracks around doorways and windows with caulking glue to help keep pests out of your home. Make sure window screens and weather stripping around doors and windows are in good condition as well.

Spider Control

Pest control is a never ending task, especially when it comes to black widow spiders. Your home can never be too safe, especially from pests. If your home or business needs proper defense from pests including black widow spiders, contact Stewart Termite & Pest Control for all of your pest control needs.