Fact sheet and Control Methods for Widow Spiders
 Although
it is true that human deaths have occurred from widow
spider bites, it is important to note that modern
fatalities from widow bites occur in less than 1 percent
of all people bitten. The chances of dying are so low
that one researcher compared the chances of dying from a
widow spider bite to your chances of being struck by
lightning.
Bites occur most often when someone
accidentally presses the spider into his or her flesh by
handling something on which the spider has attached its
web. This is where the widow spider's habit of nesting
in woodpiles or in between boxes and crates in garages
and warehouses becomes significant. Additionally, adult
females guarding egg sacs may also bite if their web is
disturbed although they will usually flee. In general,
widow spiders are a very timid group of spiders that
will only bite when threatened.
If you suspect that someone has been
bitten by a widow spider, seek medical
attention immediately and, if possible, bring the
spider with you to the medical center for positive
identification.
Widow Spider Control
Methods:
 Non-chemical
(Prevention)
Exclusion: The best way of dealing
with widow spiders is to prevent their entry into the
building in the first place.
Prevent bites: Wear gloves when handling items that
have been stored outdoors or in tool sheds. Wear gloves when
cleaning or vacuuming close spaces indoors.
Removal: If you discover a widow spider in or around
your home the safest way to remove it is with a vacuum (hose
attachment). With a vacuum you can remove the spider, the
web, and egg sacs all in one safe step. Be sure to remove
the bag from the vacuum immediately after use and throw it
away outdoors.
Chemical
Widow spiders are typically not affected
by general pesticide applications (baseboard sprays) because
they avoid the treated areas. Individual widow spiders can
be killed by direct application (to the spider itself) with
a labeled pesticide but they may not die immediately and you
risk an intoxicated spider running around loose in the
house. By far, the non-chemical methods of prevention and
removal are your best bet.
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