As the colder weather moves in, homeowners around San Antonio can expect to see more insects and spiders trying to make their way inside. While many of these creepy crawlers will mind their own business, there are some to watch out for; one, in particular, is the black widow spider. Black widow spiders are common in Texas and around the country. They are a dangerous, venomous spider species found all over North America. Knowing what to look out for if you encounter a black widow spider on your San Antonio property is advisable. EnviroGuard Pest Control wants every homeowner to be prepared for an encounter with the black widow spider.
What To Know About Black Widow Spiders
The black widow is one of the most harmful spiders to humans in the case of a spider bite. The females are readily recognized; they are shiny black, about an inch long, and have a large round abdomen with a red hourglass marking on the underside. Males do not bite humans and are smaller than females, and female black widow spiders are known to eat males on occasion after mating. These spiders are nocturnal, so they are active at night and like to lurk in the dark corners of rooms, yards, sheds, garages, closets, even furniture.
Black Widow Spider Bite
Black widow spiders will bite humans; however, bites are usually rare and happen only when the spider feels threatened. A black widow spider bite is a very serious medical situation. Black widow venom is reported to be 15 times more powerful than rattlesnake venom. Humans can suffer severe symptoms after a black widow spider bite, including increased blood pressure, sweating, nausea, and fever. There is usually pain at the time and site of the bite, and often puncture wounds will be present. Pain starts within minutes and reaches its peak in a few hours and can continue for several days. Some victims report muscle aches and chills, as well as respiratory issues. If you or anyone near you is bitten by a suspected black widow, seek medical attention immediately.
How To Prevent Black Widow Spiders
If you suspect an active black widow spider infestation, the safest and most effective method of treatment is to call a pest control specialist like the very experienced team at EnviroGuard Pest Control. There are some steps property owners can take to prevent black widow spiders from getting inside their homes and possibly biting occupants:
- Clean out clutter in storage sheds, garages, basements, and attics.
- Remove spider webs.
- Wear gloves when moving wood or other items that are stored outside.
- Remove firewood piles near the building and outbuildings.
- Seal up holes, cracks, and openings. Look near doors, windows, and building foundations.
- Install door sweeps to keep spiders out.
Get Rid Of Black Widow Spiders – Call The EnviroGuard Pest Control Team
Black widow spiders are a common house spider to encounter in San Antonio. Black widow spiders can be hard to kill, and a suspected spider infestation should always be taken seriously. The most effective way to safely remove a black widow infestation is to call your local spider control team. At EnviroGuard Pest Control, we know many methods and ways to remove black widows without harm to your home, family, or pets. Remember, a female black widow spider will bite if she feels threatened. Black widow spider bites are serious and should be treated as a medical emergency. Do not risk a venomous spider bite; call the pest removal pros at EnviroGuard Pest Control.