The black widow spider is considered as one of the most venomous spiders in North America. There is also a European variety around the Mediterranean and Corsica, and other species are found in Australia, South America, and a few other places. It is relatively well distributed around the world.
Adult, a black widow spider is black and shiny, with two red triangles joined in form of 8 on the abdomen. A female is from 8 to 14 mm not including legs, with legs it is about 20 to 30 mm. Adult males are only half the size of a female, they do not have the distinguishing red hourglass shape, but they sport red and yellow spots on the side of the abdomen.
It is called a black widow because of its habit to eat the male after copulation.
The habitat for this spider is preferably in a warmer climate, but it is not limited to hot areas only. They make a very strong web with a crisscross pattern of silk that make it a deadly trap for any insect who dares to land on it. Usually webs will be found outside in darker areas under bushes or near sheds, but they can also do so in a house or a garage when colder weather arrives.
It is an extremely venomous spider, its venom is 15 times more powerful than that of a rattlesnake. Its venom is dangerous to humans. While few humans die from a spider bite, because only a small amount of venom is injected, a human bitten by a black widow spider can spend a few days in excruciating pain. It is undoubtedly necessary to consult a doctor in case of a spider bite, and it would be preferable to catch the spider if possible in order to have it identified properly.
>>> The Dreaded Black Widow
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Wednesday, May 23, 2012
One of The Most Venomous Spiders
