Black Widow Spiders in Utah: What You Need to Know
The black widow spider is one of the most infamous and feared spiders in North America. With its shiny black body and red hourglass marking, this venomous spider is unmistakable.
Black widow spiders can be found throughout the United States, including the state of Utah. Heres a detailed look at these spiders in Utah, how to identify them, where they live, bite symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
Black Widow Spiders in Utah
There are three main species of black widow spiders found in Utah:
Western Black Widow
The western black widow (Latrodectus hesperus) is the most common and widespread black widow species in Utah. They are found throughout the state in rural and urban areas.
Northern Black Widow
The northern black widow (Latrodectus variolus) occurs primarily in the north and northeastern parts of Utah. They tend to inhabit higher elevations.
Brown Widow
The brown widow (Latrodectus geometricus) is found in the warmer, southern areas of Utah, such as Washington County. They are less common than the western black widow.
Identifying Black Widow Spiders
Black widow spiders have a distinct appearance that helps identify them. Here are the key characteristics:
Females
- Glossy black body and legs
- Prominent red or orange hourglass shape on underside of abdomen
- Body roughly 12 inch long
Males
- Smaller than females
- Light brown or gray color with stripes/spots
- No hourglass marking
Egg Sacs
- Spherical white or tan silken egg sacs
- Often have spikes sticking out
- Found near web
Where Black Widows Live in Utah
Black widows set up their webs and live in the following places in Utah:
Outdoor Spaces
- Wood piles, debris piles
- Rodent burrows, holes in ground
- Hollow stumps, logs
- Undersides of rocks, planting pots, molded furniture
- Shaded areas like porches, patios, garages
- Crawl spaces
Indoors
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Garages
- Sheds
- Laundry rooms
- Closets, attics
- Corners of unused rooms
When Black Widows Are Active
In Utah, black widow spiders are most active in the warmer months from late spring through early fall when temperatures are above 55F. Peak activity occurs July-August.
During cold winter months, black widows are dormant and inactive. They often overwinter in protected spots like window wells or building foundations.
Black Widow Bites in Utah
Black widows are not aggressive spiders and only bite humans when threatened or unintentionally contacted. Here are key facts about black widow bites:
Uncommon
Despite widespread fear, black widow bites are relatively uncommon in Utah. Their reclusive nature means most encounters with humans are accidental.
Defensive Bites
When threatened, a black widow may quickly bite and inject venom as a defense mechanism. Accidentally touching or disturbing them commonly leads to bites.
Dry Bites
Black widows don't always inject venom when they bite. Around 10-20% of bites may be "dry bites" with no venom injected.
Venom Toxicity
Black widow venom is a neurotoxin 15 times more potent than rattlesnake venom. But they inject a very small amount, so serious complications are rare.
Signs and Symptoms of Black Widow Bites
A black widow bite causes the following signs and symptoms:
Bite Mark
- Fang marks visible
- Mild swelling, pinprick pain at bite site
Muscle Pain and Cramps
- Severe muscle aches, abdominal pain, back pain
- Painful muscle spasms, cramps
Other Symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting
- Profuse sweating
- Headache
- Hypertension
- Difficulty breathing
Symptoms usually start within 1-3 hours after being bitten and last 24-48 hours without treatment.
Treatment for Black Widow Spider Bites
If you suspect a black widow bite, seek medical care right away. Here are the typical treatments:
Antivenom
- Black widow antivenom available
- Neutralizes venom toxins
- Often only used in severe cases
Pain Medication
- Opioids for muscle pain relief
- Benzodiazepines to relax muscles
IV Fluids
- Fluids to prevent dehydration
- May receive for 24+ hours
Most black widow bites resolve within 24-72 hours with proper medical treatment. Recovery and return to normal function may take a few weeks.
Preventing Black Widow Spider Bites
You can take these precautions to help avoid black widow bites in Utah:
Clear Webs and Debris
- Remove wood/rock piles, clear clutter
- Clean up rodent burrows
- Clear webs from homes and structures
Seal Up Homes
- Seal cracks, holes to prevent entry
- Install screens on windows
- Use caulk around pipes and wiring holes
Inspect and Shake Out
- Inspect areas before reaching in blindly
- Shake out gloves, shoes, towels kept outside
Use Protective Clothing
- Wear gloves, long sleeves when cleaning up debris
- Wear boots when hiking or in wood piles
Being watchful and taking sensible precautions can help you avoid encountering black widows around your Utah home.
Should You Kill Black Widows in Utah?
Many people instinctively want to kill black widows found on their property. However, it's recommended that you avoid this if possible. Here's why:
Help Control Pests
- Black widows prey on insects and other unwanted pests
- Provide free pest control services
Unlikely to Bite
- Extremely timid and non-aggressive
- Bites only in defense as a last resort
Difficult to Find
- Excellent hiders in cracks and crevices
- Trying to kill them risks getting bitten
Quickly Recolonize
- Egg sacs can contain hundreds of spiderlings
- Killing one does little to curb population
As long as black widows are not in high-traffic areas around your home, it's best to leave them be and simply take precautions.
Dealing With Black Widows Safely
If you spot a black widow spider in an area frequented by people or pets, it's advised to remove it. Follow these safe steps:
Wear Protective Gear
- Thick gloves, long sleeves, eye protection
- Reduces risk of accidental bite
Spray With Insecticide
- Use long-lasting spray from distance
- Prevents need to get close
Scoop Into Jar
- Use stiff paper or cardboard to scoop spider into sealable plastic jar
- Avoid touching spider directly
Release Spider
- Relocate at least 1 mile from home
- Release away from high-traffic areas
This approach allows safe removal without needlessly killing the spider.
What to Do if Bitten by a Black Widow
If you are bitten by a black widow, follow these important steps:
Wash Bite Site
- Use mild soap and water to clean bite area
- Helps prevent infection
Apply Cold Pack
- Place cold pack or ice wrapped in cloth on bite
- Reduces swelling and slows venom spread
Keep Bitten Area Immobilized
- Try not to move muscle where bitten
- Limits circulation of venom in body
Seek Medical Care
- Get to emergency room or call 911
- Antivenom, medications can prevent serious complications
Quickly getting medical help can aid recovery and prevent any dangerous effects of the venom.
The Bottom Line
Black widow spiders can occasionally be encountered around homes, yards, basements, and sheds in Utah. While their venom can be dangerous, bites are infrequent. Stay vigilant, respect their space, and take sensible precautions. Understanding black widow behavior and ecology allows Utah residents to coexist safely with these shy creatures.
FAQs
Where are black widows found in Utah?
Black widows live throughout Utah, especially in hidden outdoor places like woodpiles, as well as indoors in dark corners of basements, sheds, and unused rooms.
What do black widow spider bites feel like?
Black widow bites cause severe muscular pain and cramping, abdominal pain, nausea, sweating, and hypertension. Bite marks may have mild swelling.
Are black widow spiders aggressive?
No, black widows are timid and only bite when accidentally disturbed or trapped against skin. They rarely bite humans intentionally.
How dangerous are black widow spiders?
Though their venom is highly toxic, black widows rarely inject much when biting humans. With medical treatment, serious complications are uncommon.
How can I avoid black widow bites in Utah?
To prevent bites, clear clutter, inspect areas before reaching in blindly, wear gloves and long sleeves when needed, and shake out stored items that have been outside.
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.
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