Arguably the most recognizable arachnid in the world, black widow spiders are one of the most feared pests in North America. With their shiny black bodies and red hourglass on the underside, they are hard to miss. There is good reason to give these spiders a wide berth- they are one of the most venomous spiders in Idaho. Here is some more information on black widow control in Idaho.
How dangerous are black widows? They are venomous and do have the ability to kill with a bite. However, this is rare and usually only happens in the very young, very old, or those who have a compromised immune system. With that said, a bite from a black widow can still be very dangerous. Symptoms of a black widow bite include difficulty breathing, muscle aches, and nausea. Luckily for us, black widows are not naturally aggressive. In fact, they are quite the opposite. They will do anything they can to stay out of harm’s way and will only bite if threatened.
How do I identify a black widow? We all recognize the red hourglass shape on the underside of a black widow. However, only female spiders are colored in this way. Males are half the size of a female, and will have yellow or red bands on its body with spots on the back. Male black widows are not venomous.
Where might I find them? Black widows are naturally shy, opting to come out in the night to hunt. During the day they will hide in dark nooks and crannies, under rocks, ledges, plants, or wood piles- anywhere they can string a web. They prefer warmer weather, so when it gets cold they may try to make their way inside. In a home they can be found in dimly lit, sheltered areas. Garages, basements, crawl spaces, and storage areas are a few of their favorite hideouts.
What can I do to prevent black widows? As with most pests, black widow control in Idaho is best accomplished by preventing entrance to the home. Check windows, doors, and foundations for holes or cracks. Because black widows are largely found outside the home, a good prevention technique is to declutter your yard to reduce possible hiding spots. Doing the same in your garage or home will prevent the spiders from finding a place to stay.
When do I need professional help? Spiders as a whole can be difficult to effectively assess and treat on your own. Because black widows are a potentially dangerous pest to you and your family, we do not recommend home remedies. The professionals at Get Lost Pest Control are experts at black widow control in Idaho, and will ensure a home free from spiders for up to 3 months. If you notice these or other spiders in your home, contact us for your Idaho pest control treatment!
