Guide to Venomous Spiders Found in Virginia - Bites, Symptoms, Treatment

A Guide to Venomous Spiders Found in Virginia

While the majority of spiders found in Virginia are not dangerous to humans, the state is home to a few species of venomous spiders that can inflict painful, and in rare cases potentially serious, bites. By learning how to identify them and being aware of the areas they inhabit, you can take precautions to avoid encountering these spiders in Virginia.

Black Widow Spiders in Virginia

Black widow spiders are among the most infamous venomous spiders in North America. Three different species of widows can be found in Virginia - the northern, southern and western black widow.

Black widows are medium-sized spiders identified by the red hourglass shape on their undersides. They build messy-looking webs in dark, sheltered areas like basements, garages, sheds, woodpiles and crawl spaces. Bites often occur when humans encounter hidden webs and spiders become trapped against the skin.

Though not often fatal, the neurotoxic venom causes severe muscle cramps, nausea, and sharp pain spreading from the bite site. Seek medical treatment if bitten.

Brown Recluse Spiders in Virginia

Brown recluse spiders are another venomous spider occasionally found in Virginia homes. Also called “violin spiders”, they get their name from the violin-shaped marking on their heads. They have six equal-sized eyes arranged in pairs.

Recluses are most abundant in southern and central Virginia and can be identified by their sandy brown coloring and long, thin legs. They inhabit dark, quiet, undisturbed places like attics, closets and woodpiles.

The venom causes tissue damage, swelling and necrosis at the bite site. Seek emergency care if bitten by a suspected recluse spider.

Hobo Spider

The hobo spider is a member of the funnel-web spider family and gets its name from its tendency to "hitchhike" into new areas in freight trains and vehicles. In Virginia, it is most prevalent in the western part of the state.

Hobo spiders can be aggressive when disturbed and will bite defensively. Their venom can cause minor skin lesions, though the severity of hobo bites is still under study. Their appearance is similar to brown recluses but with noticeably longer spinnerets.

Yellow Sac Spiders

Yellow sac spiders are one of the more common spiders capable of inflicting painful bites in Virginia. As the name suggests, they are yellow in color and build silken tube retreats, mostly outside on porches or walls. They sometimes wander indoors and hide in houses and vehicles.

The venom can cause redness, stinging and mild skin necrosis. Their bites are comparable to a bee or wasp sting in pain level. Rarely do bites warrant medical intervention.

Other Venomous Spiders in Virginia

A few other spiders found in Virginia possess fangs and venom that could potentially pierce human skin under the right conditions. These include:

• Wolf spiders - large, hairy spiders found in wooded areas statewide.
• Jumping spiders - compact, fuzzy spiders that actively hunt during the day.
• Orb weaver spiders - large garden and grass spiders responsible for intricate, circular webs.
• Running crab spiders - spider/crab-like in appearance inhabiting gardens and woodlands.

Bites from these species may cause mild pain, swelling and itching similar to a bee sting, but are very rare and unlikely to warrant medical treatment in healthy adults.

Spider Bite Symptoms

Spider bites can cause the following symptoms, varying based on the type of spider, amount of venom injected, and individual reaction:

• Immediate stinging, burning pain at the bite site.
• Redness, swelling, bruising or small puncture marks visible on the skin.
• Itching, numbness, or tingling spreading from the bite.
• Nausea, sweating or headaches resulting from toxic venom.
• Blistering, ulceration or dying skin tissue around the bite.

Monitor the bite closely and call 911 or seek emergency care if you experience severe pain, muscle spasms, vomiting, difficulty breathing or other symptoms of shock.

Preventing Spider Bites in Virginia

You can reduce the risk of being bitten by using these spider bite prevention measures:

• Clear clutter like stacks of wood, boxes and debris outdoors.
• Install lighting in dark storage sheds and garages.
• Seal cracks in the foundation and gaps around windows.
• Wear protective clothing like gloves and long sleeves when gardening.
• Inspect or shake out shoes, clothing, and towels kept near the floor before use.
• Apply pesticides judiciously to deter infestations in high-risk areas.

Being able to identify the spiders in your region allows you to exercise caution in areas they frequent. Check shoes, gloves and sleeping areas carefully for hidden spiders before use. Seek treatment promptly for any spider bites exhibiting concerning symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions About Venomous Spiders in Virginia

What types of venomous spiders live in Virginia?

The main spiders of concern are black widows, brown recluses, hobo spiders, yellow sac spiders, wolf spiders and brown spiders. Their habitats range from woodlands to inside homes.

Where are brown recluse spiders found in Virginia?

Recluses favor the southern and central parts of the state. They inhabit dark, undisturbed places like attics, cellars, barns and crawl spaces.

What does a black widow bite feel like?

Black widow bites cause immediate pain and cramping near the bite site. Muscle spasms, abdominal pain, nausea and sweating may ensue. Bites can be fatal in rare cases.

Can spider bites cause skin damage?

Certain spiders like recluses inject necrotic venom that kills surrounding tissue. This can create an open wound or lesion. Seek medical treatment for necrotic wounds.

What should I do if bitten by a spider in Virginia?

Clean the bite area, apply ice, elevate the wound and monitor for any concerning symptoms. Seek emergency care if you experience severe pain, swelling or systemic symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.