The most notorious spider of them all – the black widow – is naturally a cause for concern for anyone who finds one of these spiders in their home. The venom can be fatal to humans if they are bitten and don't receive immediate medical treatment. Arizona is an area that is prone to black widow spiders, so Gilbert pest control efforts should also include a focus on keeping these spiders out of the home.
Interesting Facts About The Black Widow Spider
Beyond the menacing appearance of black widows, many interesting and little-known facts about these fascinating creatures set them apart from regular household spiders.
- Black widow spiders are excellent hunters and can catch prey much larger than themselves, including insects, lizards, and even small mammals.
- The red hourglass marking on the underside of the black widow spider's abdomen is a warning to predators that the spider is venomous and dangerous.
- The venom of the black widow spider contains a neurotoxin that affects the nervous system, causing muscle spasms and paralysis. However, this venom is also being studied for its potential use in treating diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
- The silk produced by black widow spiders is stronger than steel, and researchers are studying it for use in high-tech materials such as bulletproof vests and artificial tendons.
- The venom of the black widow spider is 15 times stronger than that of a rattlesnake.
While black widow spiders in Gilbert are feared, they also play an important role in the ecosystem and are worthy of our admiration and respect. They give us a chance to appreciate the complexity and diversity of life on our planet.
The Symptoms Of A Black Widow Spider's Bite
The thing about black widows that concern people the most is their bite. They are one of the most dangerous spiders in the United States. A black widow bite is a very serious thing, and you should seek immediate medical attention for black widow spider bites. In most cases, they are not fatal, but they can be. The symptoms you should look out for include the following:
- Sharp pain at the site of the bite
- Redness and swelling
- Intense muscle cramping and spasms
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
Some of the rare complications that a bite from a black widow could cause are cardiac issues like heart palpitations, chest pain, and heart attacks. Neurological issues such as seizures, tremors, and hallucinations could occur when venom affects the nervous system. Seeking medical treatment right away is important if you are bitten by one of these spiders in southern Arizona.
Factors That Attract Black Widow Spiders To Your Property
Black widow spiders, just like all types of spiders, are attracted to certain environmental conditions. A few factors can increase their likelihood of appearing on your property. These spiders love to hide in debris-cluttered areas of your yard or home. Dark, damp spaces like crawl spaces and basements are also a huge draw for them. And, of course, if you have a lot of insects around your property, they are sure to attract black widows and other spiders. It's easier to prevent spiders in your home if you take care of these little problems.
Call The Pros To Safely Get Rid Of Black Widow Spiders
Dangerous spiders like the black widow should be handled with care – and by professionals. If you want to get rid of black widow spiders on your property, call a home pest control company like Pro Active Pest Control. Our team is trained in the safe removal of dangerous spiders and can help keep your home free from these potentially life-threatening pests.