Black Widow Spider

Found globally in temperate and tropical regions, typically in dark, dry, undisturbed places like woodpiles, garages, basements, and outdoor brush.

Insects and other arthropods caught in their irregular, sticky cobwebs.

Solitary, nocturnal spiders that spend most of their time hanging upside down in their webs. They are non-aggressive and generally only bite in defense when accidentally pressed against human skin.

Risks: Females possess potent neurotoxic venom (latrotoxin) that causes painful muscle cramps, abdominal pain, and systemic symptoms, requiring medical attention. Benefits: Helps control populations of pest insects like flies, mosquitoes, and beetles.