Black Widow Spider

Category Spiders

Actual Size: ½ to 1 ½ inches

Characteristics: Shiny black or brown body with a bright red marking.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Black widow spiders spin webs in spots that aren’t disturbed often – in sheltered areas like rock heaps, structural crevices, and less-visited corners of outdoor areas.

Habits:

  • One of the most venomous spiders in Florida.
  • Their webs are distinct and unique.
  • These spiders are peaceful creatures by nature and don’t look for trouble.

Black Widow Spiders in Florida

In our vibrant Florida, black widow spiders find the subtropical climate is a perfect retreat. The humidity, paired with our variety of outdoor hideouts, makes the area a spider breeding ground. They find our human spaces pretty cozy, setting up camp in nooks and crannies that offer them peace and quiet. 

If you find a black window in your home or business, they likely caught a ride from outdoor items that find their way indoors. Both male and female black widows sport a sleek dark hue, but you’ll recognize the females by their signature hourglass or spotted design on their abdomen. 

Black Widow Habitat

Black widow spiders prefer secluded and shadowy areas, whether it’s a pile of rocks, a crack in a wall, or a cozy corner under your garden bench. They’re experts at weaving their unique, somewhat shabby webs in the places less traveled. Our garages and storage sheds, as well as the undersides of outdoor tables, can also be appealing to these eight-legged architects. Keep an eye out for their distinctive, messy webs, which can be a telltale sign of their presence.

Black Widow Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Despite the fear they sometimes invoke, black widow spiders avoid confrontation. They might bite only in situations where they feel threatened, such as if they’re surprised by an unsuspecting hand while they’re hiding out. 

Even though they’re the most venomous spider in North America, serious incidents with them are quite rare. However, it’s crucial to be aware that symptoms can include: discomfort at the bite site, muscle stiffness, and even flu-like signs such as nausea and fever. If you think a black widow has bitten you, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.

And if the thought of sharing your space with these eight-legged creatures makes you uneasy, call in your friendly local pest control experts to handle the situation.