Black widows have a proceeding reputation where they are nothing to be messed with. Their toxic bites as well as their characteristics and behavior have them painted as a menacing critter that is best left alone. There pitch black bodies and the females baring the red hourglass shaped mark on their backs add to their malice. With winter fast approaching, and the fall season in full swing, we at A Five Star Termite & Pest Control would like touch on black widow basics and their fall/winter behavior.
Venomous Black Widow Spiders
Due to the potency of its venom, the black widow spider is perhaps the most feared spider in the U.S., it is reported to be 15 times stronger than that of a rattlesnake. People would be at far greater risk of these fearsome spiders if the black widow spider aggressiveness matched the potency of its venom. Generally, black widows are shy and will usually only bite humans in defensive tactics, such as if their web is disturbed. Typically, even in warmer states like Texas, the black widow spider overwinters.
Where Do Black Widow Spiders Live?
For the most part, black widow spiders stay outdoors. Living in crevices or recesses within sprinkler valve boxes, rock piles, block walls, and undersides of patio furniture, black widows tend to build irregular erratic looking web. Other popular spots to find black widows include outdoor sheds, garages, and playground equipment.
Where Do Black Widows Go in the Winter?
When it is cold enough, black widow spiders go into a state known as overwintering. Widow spiders look for warmer locations to hunker down for the season as the temperatures drop. She may find a suitable place where she can overwinter just like a hibernating bear after the black widow spider enters a storage shed, garage or home. To conserve energy the spider’s metabolic rate slows. Because they are adapted to live through cold months in a low-energy state, winter don’t harm black widows. They will become dormant and tuck their legs in. Generally, once temperatures consistently reach under 70 degrees Fahrenheit, is when they fall dormant.
Black Widow Spider Repellent & Prevention
Emerging in spring, black widow spiders will start mating through early summer. During the spring and summer, the young spiders continue to grow into adults and mature by mid to late summer. Through late summer and fall, adult widows are most prevalent. To prevent an infestation, below are a few tips.
1) All entry points need to be sealed and keep you home as clutter free as possible.
2) Keep window screens intact and ensure weather stripping is in place and in good condition.
3) When removing unwanted items or searching in the garage or shed, be sure to wear gloves in the dark corners, especially if you see spider web remnants.
Spider Inspections, Control & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
If you suspect black widows are moving into your outdoor structures, garage, or inside your home in the Greater San Antonio, TX area, call A Five Star Termite & Pest Control and let our certified experts take care of any infestations or help prepare your home to prevent them. We use premium products and advanced methods and equipment to ensure effective results. Contact us today!
