Black Widow Spiders

About Black Widow Spiders:

A Black Widow bite can be up 15times stronger than a rattlesnake bite. They are typically black (Southern Black Widow) with a red “hourglass” on its stomach. It has 8 long legs, and no antennae. It is typically round in shape, about 3 – 10 mm long, females larger than males. Immature black widows are orange and white.

Where to Look for Black Widow Spiders:

You may notice a black widow infestation by the presence of irregular webs, messy in nature near the ground level. You may also find the silk egg sac in a door war which will hold from 20 – 900 eggs, most of which will be eaten by cannibalization. The female eat the males after mating, hence the name “Widow”, as do they feed on their young, and the young on themselves causing larger infestations due to large amount of eggs during breeding. Reproduction typically occurs during summer months.

Treatment of Black Widow Bites:

Wash the area with soap and water, apply a cold wash-cloth or ice pack wrapped in cloth, take a pain reliever to reduce swelling and inflammation. If the bite is on a limb, elevate the limb, and apply antibiotic to the site.

Emergency Care:

If symptoms present are Muscles hurt or become stiff, typically within 8 hours. Nausea or vomiting, difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain or cramps, rash or itchiness, swollen eyelids, excessive sweating, and weakness or tremors, possibly paralysis of the legs. Seek medical attention immediately if you have been bit by a Black Widow.

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