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Black Widow Spiders

black widow spider

There are many different species of spiders found in South Florida. The most common spider species that can be a nuisance to homeowners, however, are the black widow, brown recluse, long-bodied cellar, common house, jumping, wolf, and hobo spiders.

  • Black Widow – The most easily identifiable mark on a black widow is the red hourglass shape on their abdomen. The female spider may bite if agitated or threatened, and symptoms of a bite include fever, increased blood pressure, sweating, and nausea.

Facts:

  • The black widow’s silk is said to be the strongest silk. Instead of spinning a perfectly round web, the black widow spins thick jumbles of web.
  • Certain wasps prey on this spider and can sting and paralyze the black widow.
  • The black widow can grow to 8-10mm.