Phoenix Black Widow Spider Removal
Are Black Widow Spiders Dangerous?
Yes, female black widows are highly venomous. Their bite affects the nervous system and can cause severe muscle pain, cramps, and nausea, requiring immediate medical attention.
What Are Black Widow Spiders?
Female black widows are shiny black with a distinctive red hourglass marking on their underside. They are nocturnal and build messy, irregular webs in dark, undisturbed areas.
Signs of a Black Widow Infestation
Look for irregular, strong, and sticky webs in corners, garages, woodpiles, and under furniture. You may spot the spider hanging upside down in the web at night.
Preventing Black Widow Spiders
Reduce clutter in garages, basements, and yards to eliminate hiding spots. Wear gloves when moving stored items or firewood, and ensure window screens fit tightly.
The Antidote
Our technicians perform thorough inspections to locate and treat webs and hiding places. We apply targeted residual treatments to eliminate spiders and prevent their return.
Black Widow FAQs
Will a black widow bite me?
Black widows are not aggressive and typically only bite in self-defense, such as when accidentally touched, squeezed, or trapped against the skin.
What should I do if bitten by a black widow?
Seek medical attention immediately. Wash the bite area with soap and water, apply an ice pack to reduce swelling, and try to safely identify the spider if possible.
Do black widows really eat their mates?
While it does happen occasionally, it is not as common as the myth suggests. Males often escape after mating, though they may be eaten if the female is particularly hungry.
Where do black widows hide in homes?
They prefer dark, quiet areas like garages, basements, crawl spaces, behind appliances, and in cluttered storage areas or undisturbed corners.
What do black widow spider egg sacs look like?
The egg sacs are smooth, round, and pale yellow to white, measuring about 1/2 inch in diameter. They are typically suspended within the spider's web.
Are baby black widows dangerous?
Spiderlings are mostly white or yellowish and their venom is not strong enough to harm humans. They gain their toxicity and dark coloration as they mature.