The warmer winter in Utah meant more black widows survived and produced offspring during the summer months. That means as we move into fall, these spiders will start showing up in places you don't want to see them.
The Role of Black Widows in Ecosystems
Black widows can be helpful in eating bugs like flies and mosquitoes. Even though they have a venomous bite, they won't attack unless provoked. If they are in an out of the way place, they can be left alone to do their thing.
However, if black widows are in your home or a place where children or pets might run into them, you should have them removed. With the increase of the spiders this year, it is a good idea to be more careful.
Identifying Black Widow Habitats
These spiders like dark, warm undisturbed places near the ground. If you have a pair of shoes sitting on the porch, you should shake it before putting your foot inside. Same goes if you are getting wood from a woodpile when the air turns cold.
Black widow webs are strong and messy looking. They build uneven webs with a strong top line. If you are taking off your barbecue cover and see a web, be careful how you handle it and where you place it.
People don't normally die from a black widow bite. Still, it should be taken serious and you should get medical attention. The area can swell so remove any rings or a watch and elevate the limb then remain calm while you get help.
Read More: Kill This Moth If You See it In Utah
Contact a pest control specialist if you suspect your house or yard has been infested. They know what to look for and they are aware of the larger numbers after warm winters.
