Black Widow Spiders

What Are Black Widow Spiders? 

Black widow spiders have large, round or oval-shaped abdomens. The female's most recognizable feature is the red hourglass-like marking on the bottom of their abdomen. In contrast, male black widow spiders are brown with cream-colored markings. 
 
These spiders help to control populations of nuisance and dangerous insects, including disease-spreading mosquitoes. But, when these pests invade our Dallas area yards or our homes and outbuildings, they pose big problems because of their ability to affect people's health.

Black Widow Spider Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are black widow spiders dangerous?

Female black widow spiders pose more of a threat to people than males because females have venom that is strong enough to cause significant health problems. 

Though black widow spiders are one of the few dangerous spiders living in the United States, the good news is that bites are rare as they are not aggressive. Contact with black widow spiders is usually by accident when doing things like working in the garden, doing yard work, or taking things out of storage boxes. 

While bites are usually not life-threatening, if a black widow spider bites you, seek medical attention to control any symptoms. 

Why do I have a black widow spider problem?

Black widow spiders are attracted to properties where they can build their webs in secluded areas and where there are places for them to hunt insects and other spiders. Yards with lots of rocks, woodpiles, outdoor furniture, garden areas, landscaping, and outbuildings attract black widow spiders. While you are most likely to come into contact with black widow spiders outside, it is common for them to make their way indoors when following their prey. 

Where will I find black widow spiders?

Inside homes and other structures, black widow spiders hide in dark, quiet areas like closets, attics, crawl spaces, and under furniture.
 
Black widows are nocturnal spiders, so it can be a while before you notice their presence. One of the best ways to identify the presence of black widow spiders is by their webs. Their webs are not neat and organized; they are quite the opposite. Black widow spider webs are random and almost chaotic in appearance, and they build them at ground level.

How do I get rid of black widow spiders?

Locally owned and family operated, All-Safe Pest & Termite is the best choice to get rid of black widow spiders from your home or business. We offer fast response times and peace of mind knowing that your pest problems will be solved, and they won't return. Our experienced professionals provide top-quality pest control services using the latest and most effective products to eliminate black widow spiders from Dallas properties. Discover why your neighbors choose All-Safe Pest & Termite for their pest control needs. Give us a call today!

How can I prevent black widow spiders in the future?

Prevent problems with black widow spiders by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Avoid accidental contact with black widow spiders by keeping any storage areas in your home's basements, closets, sheds, and garages free of clutter and debris.
• Wear gloves while working outside in the garden or yard to help prevent being on the receiving end of a bite from a black widow.
• Shake out clothing or bedding that has been in storage before using it.
• Store personal items in plastic containers with tight-fitting lids instead of inside flimsy cardboard boxes.
• Keep garden areas free of debris and prune shrubs to keep them from overflowing.
• Reduces excess moisture around your home that attracts black widow spiders and other insects. Keep gutters in good working order and repair any leaky pipes.
• Stop black widow spiders from getting inside your home by sealing spaces in the foundation and exterior walls. Keep doors and windows closed and use screens.