A Guide To Black Widow Spider Control For Dallas Property Owners
8/14/2020
Spider populations almost always accompany larger pest problems. Some spider infestations are worse than others, like the kind that results in painful bites that require medical attention. Black widows, a common invasive spider variety, can pose greater risks to your health and property than simple house spiders. Learning more about how to spot and deter them is crucial for prevention.
What Even Are Black Widow Spiders?
Black widows are one of the most poisonous spiders in North America, but they aren’t often seen by humans. They are solitary predators that stick to the shadows and tend to be nocturnal hunters. As such, many people don’t actually know what they look like:
Size
Black widows aren’t tarantula-sized, but they are usually larger than typical house varieties. Including leg span, black widows can grow to around an inch in diameter.
Color
Black widows are inky dark, with the sole splash of color being the telltale crimson hourglass found on their bellies.
Nests
Black widows nest in woody, dark areas, so you’ll typically only find their nesting grounds in piles or undersides of porches and roofs. Their feeding webs, however, can be just about anywhere, a headache for those who like to do clean sweeps for webs.
Dangerous (But Rare) Bites
The biggest problem with a black widow infestation is obviously their bites. These are far more serious than the common bug bite. While black widow bites themselves are rare and almost never lethal, you don’t want to have to judge for yourself how dangerous a bite is.
If you or a loved one suffers a bite or exhibits any of these common symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:
Pain & Swelling
Like all bites, the area of puncture will swell and pucker, often with an itchy burning sensation. Black widow bites are often much more painful than other bites.
Nausea & Dizziness
The effects of a black widow bite are more assailing to our bodies than less venomous pests. It’s not uncommon for people to feel light-headed and sick following a black widow bite.
Muscle Spasms
The purpose of black widow venom is to paralyze prey, as such it can have direct effects on our muscular system as well.
Spider Prevention For Your Property
Not only do you need to take steps to prevent black widows themselves, but you need to prevent the critters that they prey upon, too. The presence of other pests can drive spiders, including black widows, onto your property:
Food Storage
Spiders hunt for their own food, but the bugs they prey upon will forage for scraps and traces. You have to eliminate these sources in order to curb pest populations.
Wood Storage
Black widows will often find their way into structures thanks to wood piles or materials stacked too close to the building. Keep these things well away from your home or business to reduce the likelihood that nests will be nearby.
Treatments
Seasonal or year-round treatments for your lawn and exterior can help ward off all kinds of pests, including black widows. Since most infestations start outdoors, yard protection is a necessity.
Professional Protection From Lonestar
Whether spiders are already a concern or you just want more helpful tips and tricks to stay ahead on prevention, local pest professionals are here to help. Only advice and inspections by experts can let you know for sure what your level of risk is. At Lonestar Safe Pest, we have experience dealing with spider infestations in Dallas, and the pests that attract them to your property.
For thorough, proven black widow spider control, don’t wait, contact Lonestar Safe Pest today.