Bug Identifier
Brown widow
Community identification

Brown widow

Latrodectus geometricus

Order & Family
Araneae: Theridiidae
Size
Females range from 1/2 to 5/8 inches; males are much smaller, around 1/8 to 1/4 inches.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Tropical and subtropical regions; often found in sheltered, urban areas such as under outdoor furniture, in garages, or in crawl spaces.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily insects and other small arthropods caught in its messy, three-dimensional web.

Behavior Patterns

Generally nocturnal and reclusive, staying near its web. Known for being less aggressive than black widows and producing distinctive, spiky egg sacs.

Risks & Benefits

Possesses neurotoxic venom; while potentially painful, bites are usually less severe than those of the black widow. Benefits the ecosystem as a natural pest controller.