There has been an increase in Black Widow spiders this fall. According to pest control companies, the weather over recent months has created a more conducive environment for the spiders.
Black widows are poisonous to people and pets, but their bite isn’t fatal. They are typically docile and do not bite unless threatened. They typically stay outside and you generally won’t see them indoors unless it’s an environment like a basement that isn’t in use often.
Some things to look out for:
- Webs that are lower than waist level, coming at a 45 degree angle away from a wall
- A “messy” web structure, not the normal angled, symmetrical shape of a regular web
- The pen test: If you stick a pen through the web and you can hear it cracking, it belongs to a black or brown widow spider
If you see a black widow, it is best to give the professionals a call. Eggs can be crushed safely, but anyone with concerns should contact an expert.
Source: Spider Exterminator Phoenix, AZ Pest Control (frontinopest.com)
