Black widow spiders are relatively common in Longview, but you might not always see them. Despite this, they can cause problems around your home. Gecko Pest Control provides black widow spider control in Longview to keep your family safe.
Distinctive Markings: How To Identify A Black Widow Spider
The black widow is one of the easiest spider species to identify. They’re about 1 1/2 inches long and black. They have a distinctive red hourglass on the underside of the abdomen. Black widows build irregular, messy webs near ground level, where they hang upside down.
Black widow spiders prefer to stay out of sight. You will most likely find them in closets, sheds, and dark corners where they won’t be bothered. You should carefully reach into areas you can’t see since black widows will bite in self-defense.
Potential Health Risks: The Dangers Of Black Widow Spiders
Black widows are one of the few types of venomous spiders in Longview—really, in the whole United States. They rarely bite, but they will do so if they feel threatened. You should be cautious about where black widows could hide since accidentally grabbing one could result in a bite.
Black widow spiders have a strong venom. Bites can lead to severe pain, fever, increased blood pressure, and nausea. Fortunately, black widow spider bites are rarely fatal. Wash the bite with soap and water. If the pain is mild, you may not need medical attention. Children and older adults are more vulnerable to severe reactions. Call a doctor if you think a black widow spider has bitten you or someone else to get treatment advice.
Black Widow Spider Prevention Tips: Keeping Your Home Spider-Free
There are a few steps you can take to keep black widows away from your home. Try these tips to prevent black widow spider infestations and bites:
- Reduce clutter around your home to eliminate hiding spots.
- Store firewood 20 feet away from your home, and wear gloves when handling it.
- Seal any cracks and holes in the walls to keep spiders from entering your home.
- Address other pest problems that could be feeding spiders around your home.
- Shake out gardening gloves and boots before putting them on.
- Look carefully before reaching into dark sheds, piles of yard debris, or firewood, and before picking items up off the ground.
Remember that black widow spiders can be dangerous, but stay hidden. Do your best to keep spiders out of your home, but protecting yourself should be a priority. Don’t reach blindly into dark closets or sheds. Wear protective gloves when handling yard debris, picking up stones or logs, or moving anything else that could hide spiders. You’re most likely to be bitten by a black widow spider if you catch it off guard, so be cautious.
If you find black widows around your home or yard, your best option is to call a professional pest control company to get rid of the spiders.
Black Widow Spider Removal: Hiring Experts For Safe Elimination
When you call Gecko Pest Control for black widow spider control, you know you’re getting the best care in the Longview area. We provide custom treatment plans designed to effectively protect your home. The health and safety of your family are our top priority, which is why we treat homes for black widow spiders. We offer monthly and quarterly pest protection plans as well as one-time services.
Call Gecko Pest Control today to learn more about our home pest control services.