BLACK WIDOW SPIDERS (Latrodectus)

Biology

• Length of females is about ½ inch and the males are ¼ inch long.
• Females are black.
• Red hourglass shaped marks are seen on the underside of the abdomen of the females.

Distribution/Habits

• Found throughout the world in temperate and tropical areas
• Outdoors and indoors; secluded protected sites under or inside logs, under dense shrubbery, under boards, in firewood piles, under furniture, behind and under any debris.
• Favorite places include barns, sheds, meter boxes, woodpiles, etc.
• If bitten, immediately call a physician or go to a hospital emergency room.