Black widow spiders are known for their potent venom. This article addresses their presence in Oklahoma, how to identify them, and what to know about their bites and safety.
Black Widow Presence in Oklahoma
Black widow spiders are found in Oklahoma. The Southern Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans) is common, and the Northern Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus) also inhabits the state. These spiders prefer undisturbed, dark, and sheltered environments, both indoors and outdoors. Common habitats include woodpiles, sheds, garages, and crawl spaces, as well as under rocks, hollow logs, and outdoor furniture. They construct irregular, tangled webs, often near ground level, where they typically hang upside down.
Identifying Black Widows
Adult female black widows are typically shiny black and possess a prominent red or orange hourglass-shaped marking on the underside of their globular abdomen. This marking can sometimes appear as two separate reddish triangles, especially in the Northern Black Widow.
Females are larger than males, with a body length that can reach approximately 13 mm. Male black widows are about half the size of females and tend to have lighter markings, sometimes with red spots and white lines on their abdomen. Juvenile black widows can also exhibit orange, brown, and white coloration, gradually turning black with subsequent molts.
Understanding Black Widow Bites and Safety
A bite from a female black widow spider can deliver a neurotoxic venom, which affects the nervous system. While the initial bite might feel like a pinprick or go unnoticed, symptoms typically develop within 15 minutes to an hour. Common symptoms include severe muscle pain and cramping, which can spread to the abdomen, chest, or back. Other reactions may include nausea, vomiting, sweating, headache, and muscle stiffness.
Though black widow bites are painful, they are rarely fatal for healthy adults. However, bites can be more severe in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, or individuals with compromised immune systems.
If a suspected black widow bite occurs, it is important to wash the area with soap and water and apply an ice pack to help reduce pain and swelling. Prompt medical attention should be sought, especially if symptoms worsen or involve severe pain, muscle cramps, or difficulty breathing.
Preventing encounters with black widows involves caution in their preferred habitats. Consider these safety measures:
- Wear gloves when gardening, handling firewood, or moving items in storage.
- Shake out shoes, clothing, and blankets stored in dark, undisturbed areas.
- Clear clutter in basements, attics, and garages to minimize hiding spots.
- Seal entry points around the home to deter spiders.