Bug Identifier
Brown Widow Spider
Community identification

Brown Widow Spider

Latrodectus geometricus

Order & Family
Order: Araneae, Family: Theridiidae
Size
Females are typically 1/2 to 1 inch (including legs); males are significantly smaller.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found in tropical and subtropical environments. Often seen around buildings, under eaves, in garages, and in outdoor furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous. Diet primarily consists of insects and other small arthropods caught in their web.

Behavior Patterns

Builds irregular, tangled, three-dimensional webs. They are generally shy and will retreat when disturbed. Known for their distinctive spiky egg sacs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Venomous bite, though generally less severe than the black widow. A bite may cause pain, redness, and swelling. Benefits: Helps control populations of pest insects.