Spiders are a pest that you very likely dread encountering around your Opelika, AL property. Even if you aren't afraid of spiders, there's no denying that they can be off-putting and scary to look at. While it's easy to assume that most spiders are dangerous, only two in our area are considered medically significant. While all spiders have fangs and venom that they use to attack their prey, only the black widow and the brown recluse can harm humans.
In general, black widow spiders have quite a reputation in society and pop culture, so you might already have a good idea of what they look like. But, a brief description can be helpful as a refresher:
- They are a jet black color.
- They have a red marking in the shape of an hourglass on their underbellies.
- They have very round, bulbous bodies.
While the black widow spider usually stays outside, sometimes they get indoors. They like to hide in areas that are dark and full of clutter. When inside, they're found in garages, crawl spaces, closets, or basements.
What You Need To Know About Black Widow Bites
Even though black widow bites are dangerous, luckily, they are a rare occurrence. However, just because you're not likely to be bitten doesn't mean that it never happens. The easiest way to know that a black widow spider has bitten you is if you see the bite occur, but if you don't, you should look for two small puncture wounds next to each other produced by their fangs.
It's also important to remember that each person will react differently to the bite, but there might be swelling at the site, and often, the bite itself is painful. Common symptoms after being bitten include muscle cramps, headaches, chest pain, and nausea. If you suspect a bite, it's vital to seek emergency medical attention right away.
Tips For Preventing Black Widow Spiders
Since black widow spiders have potent venom that can harm you or those you care about, taking steps to keep them away from your Opelika property is important. Remember that no prevention steps can completely guarantee you won't have these spiders, but they can reduce the risk by making your property less appealing.
Here are some simple ways to deter black widows:
- Black widow spiders often hide in woodpiles, so keep these away from the exterior of buildings.
- Regularly trim bushes, shrubs, and trees.
- Since black widows prefer cluttered places, keep areas like garages and basements free of excess clutter.
- Spiders like the black widow are often attracted to a home because of an excess of prey, so focus on fixing underlying pest issues.
- Remove access points by fixing broken screens.
- De-web both in the interior and exterior of the building.
How To Protect Your Home From Black Widow Spiders
Luckily, most spiders in Opelika, AL and the surrounding area are just a nuisance, but if you do find black widow spiders around your property, you should take action to remove them. While being bitten is still relatively rare, it's not worth putting your health at risk, or the health of others around you. The best way to prevent and remove black widows is to get professional pest control from the experts at Prewett Pest Control. We can provide the ongoing assistance you need to protect you and your family from these venomous spiders. Contact us today to find out more about our effective pest control services or to book an appointment.