Do Black Widows Live in Maryland and Virginia?

There are 3,000 spider species that call North America home. Of these, only 27 species are known to be fatal to humans. Of those, the black widow spider is perhaps the most commonly feared venomous spider species.  But where do black widows live? If you reside in Maryland or Virginia, you likely wonder if black widows call these states home. Continue reading to not only learn the answer to this question but also how to identify black widow spiders and their webs.

Do Black Widows Live in Maryland and Virginia?

Black widows can be found in almost all 50 states. Since they thrive in warm climates, they’re more prevalent in the southern and western states. This means that, yes, black widows do live in Maryland and Virginia.

It’s essential to know black widows are uncommon. When they are found, it’s typically outside and not in people’s homes. This doesn’t mean black widows never come inside, but it’s rare.

How to Identify Black Widow Spiders

It’s essential to be able to identify black widow spiders since they could be encountered outside the home. They have a habit of making their webs beneath outdoor furniture, so it’s important to check before sitting down.

Mature female black widows are black with red markings that form an hourglass on the bottom of their abdomens. Immature females and males are both brown, orange, or white. They have light streaks across the underside of their abdomens.

Female black widows are generally larger and have a lifespan of about eighteen months. Male spiders usually only live between two and five months.

How to Identify Black Widow Spider Webs

Black widow spiders lay their egg sacks in their webs. These webs are created from many small fibers that merge in the center. This central area is where the spider generally waits for something to get caught in their web.

Besides beneath outdoor furniture, there are many places you might find black widow’s webs beneath boards or stones outside. Both inside the home and out, these spiders sometimes make their nests inside boxes. A black widow’s favorite place to create their webs is where brick or wood siding extends to ground level.

What to Do If You Find Black Widow Spiders

A single black widow spider isn’t cause for alarm, but a handful or more are. These spiders are toxic to humans and, if they bite you, can be deadly. If you find several of these spiders in or around your home, it’s essential to call a pest control company to take care of the problem before someone because hurt.

Do You Have More Questions About Where Do Black Widows Live?

Black widows tend to be more prevalent in the southern and western parts of the United States because they thrive in warmer climates. However, they can be found in almost all fifty states.

Do you have more questions about where do black widows live? Or do you have a black widow issue you need assistance with?

Contact us today. One of our associates would be happy to answer any questions you still have. They can also set you up a pest control service if desired.