Black widow spiders, with their distinctive appearance and potent venom, often spark curiosity and concern. Understanding these spiders involves recognizing their characteristics and behavior.
Black Widows in Ohio
Black widow spiders are found across Ohio, with two primary species: the Northern Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus) and the Southern Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans). These spiders are widely distributed, though encountering them is uncommon. The Southern Black Widow is more frequently observed in southern Ohio, while the Northern Black Widow is more common in the western parts of the state.
These spiders often inhabit secluded, undisturbed areas, preferring dry surroundings. They are frequently found in abandoned buildings, barns, outhouses, and under rocks or logs in shaded environments. Around homes, black widows may seek refuge in basements, attics, closets, garages, sheds, and woodpiles. While less common, they are found across most of Ohio, with fewer records from the northwestern glaciated regions.
Identifying Black Widows
Female black widow spiders are generally recognized by their glossy black bodies, measuring approximately 8 to 13 millimeters (about half an inch) in body length. A prominent red hourglass-shaped marking is typically visible on the underside of their abdomen. This marking can vary between species; the Northern Black Widow often has an hourglass that is broken into two distinct red spots, while the Southern Black Widow’s hourglass is usually a single, continuous mark.
Some black widows, particularly immatures, may also display red or white markings on their back. Male black widows are smaller than females, typically measuring around 4 to 6 millimeters (about a quarter inch), and are lighter in color with varied red or orange markings. These spiders construct irregular, tangled, and messy webs, often found in dark crevices or corners. Their webs are sticky and remarkably strong.
Understanding a Black Widow Bite
A black widow spider bite is typically a defensive action from the female, as males are not known to bite humans. The venom is neurotoxic, meaning it affects the nervous system. While the initial bite may feel like a minor prick, symptoms can progress and intensify over several hours.
Common symptoms include localized pain, which can spread and develop into painful muscle spasms and cramps throughout the body. Other reported effects are nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal, back, or chest pain, fever, chills, excessive sweating, and headaches. Symptoms typically worsen within 6 to 12 hours after the bite and can persist for up to a week. While black widow bites can be serious and cause discomfort, they are rarely life-threatening for healthy adults. Medical attention is advisable, particularly for young children, the elderly, or individuals with compromised health.
Preventing Black Widow Encounters
Reducing the likelihood of encountering black widow spiders involves modifying their preferred habitats around your property. These spiders favor secluded, dark, and undisturbed areas for their webs and shelter. Common outdoor hiding spots include woodpiles, sheds, garages, under rocks, and beneath patio furniture. Indoors, they might be found in basements, attics, and closets.
Maintaining a tidy environment is an effective preventive measure; regularly cleaning and decluttering potential hiding spots can deter them. When working in areas where black widows might reside, such as moving firewood or cleaning out a shed, wearing gloves provides protection. It is also advisable to inspect items stored in undisturbed areas, like boxes or seasonal decorations, before bringing them indoors or handling them closely.