Black widow spiders, primarily the Western black widow (Latrodectus hesperus), are present in Washington State. These venomous spiders can be found across various regions of the state.
Where Black Widows Live in Washington
Black widow spiders are commonly found in Eastern Washington, with smaller populations also existing in Western Washington. These spiders prefer dark, undisturbed locations close to the ground. Common outdoor habitats include woodpiles, bales of hay, water meter boxes, under eaves, and fences. They also inhabit debris piles and dense vegetation in yards.
Indoors, black widows frequently seek out secluded and protected areas. They are often found in undisturbed, cluttered spaces such as basements, crawl spaces, and unused areas of garages. These spiders construct irregular, messy-looking webs in or behind objects in these hidden spots. While they prefer outdoor settings, they may enter homes through entry points around doors, windows, or vents.
How to Identify Black Widows
Identifying black widow spiders involves recognizing distinct physical characteristics, particularly those of the female, as she is the more commonly encountered and medically significant spider. The adult female black widow is typically shiny black with a rounded, almost spherical abdomen. A prominent feature is the red hourglass-shaped marking located on the underside of her abdomen. This marking can sometimes appear as two separate reddish triangles or a single dot, and its color may vary to yellowish-orange.
The body of an adult female black widow is relatively large, measuring about a half-inch long. Male black widows are considerably smaller than females, often about half their size, and are usually brown or gray with white stripes and spots on their abdomen. Males typically lack the distinct red hourglass marking. Immature black widows can be orange, brown, and white, gradually acquiring more black coloration with each molt.
Understanding a Black Widow Bite
A black widow spider bite may initially go unnoticed. Within 15 minutes to an hour, a dull muscle pain typically spreads from the bite area. This pain can intensify and manifest as severe muscle cramps and spasms, particularly in large muscle groups like the abdomen, chest, and back. The venom, a neurotoxin, affects the nervous system, leading to these widespread muscle symptoms.
Additional symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, sweating, headache, and elevated blood pressure. While black widow bites are rarely fatal, they can be intensely painful. Children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems may experience more severe reactions. Medical attention is advised immediately if a black widow bite is suspected, especially if symptoms extend beyond the bite site or become severe.
Preventing Bites and Responding to Them
Preventing black widow bites involves being mindful of their preferred habitats and taking precautions. Wearing gloves when gardening, handling firewood, or moving items from storage areas like sheds, basements, and garages can help prevent accidental contact. Shake out shoes, gloves, and hats before wearing them if they have been stored in dark places. Clearing clutter around the home and yard, such as old furniture, boxes, and woodpiles, reduces potential hiding spots for these spiders. Sealing cracks and openings in homes, and ensuring tight-fitting screens on windows and doors, can limit their entry.
If a black widow bite is suspected, clean the bitten area immediately with soap and water. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the bite site can help reduce swelling and pain. Elevate the bitten limb if possible. Seeking medical help right away is important, especially if pain is more than minor or whole-body symptoms develop. Contacting a poison control center or visiting an emergency room is recommended for professional guidance and treatment.