Understanding Poisonous Spiders in Washington State
Though the majority of spiders in Washington are harmless, the state is home to a few species of venomous spiders that can pose a danger to humans. Being able to identify local poisonous spiders can help you take precautions and get medical care if bitten.
Venomous vs Poisonous Spiders
Venom and poison are not the same. Poison needs to be swallowed or absorbed to cause harm, while venom has to enter the body via injection, often through a bite or sting:
- Venomous - Spiders that inject toxin via fangs or stingers.
- Poisonous - Spiders that cause illness if ingested or touched.
When discussing hazardous Washington spiders, the more accurate term is venomous rather than poisonous.
Spider Bite Symptoms
Common symptoms of bites from venomous spiders found locally include:
- Immediate stinging pain
- Redness and swelling
- Itching and tingling
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Skin ulcers at bite site
Seek medical attention if bitten by one of the following venomous Washington spiders.
Black Widow Spiders
The most notorious venomous spider in Washington is the female black widow. About 1-2 inches in size, they have a distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of their shiny black body.
Where Found
Black widows set up their webs in dark corners of:- Wood and brush piles
- Hollow stumps
- Garages, sheds, and outbuildings
- Undisturbed storage areas
- Nooks and crannies in homes
Bite Treatment
Black widow bites can be extremely painful but are rarely deadly. Seek medical attention if bitten. Antivenom can relieve symptoms including:
- Severe stomach cramps
- Rigid abdominal muscles
- Nausea and vomiting
- Profuse sweating
- Headache and fatigue
Pain often spreads from bite site throughout the body over several hours.
Brown Recluse Spiders
Brown recluse spiders are not native but have become established in some areas of central and eastern Washington.
Identifying Features
About half an inch long, brown recluses have these signature traits:
- Uniform light to deep brown coloring
- Darker legs compared to body
- Violin-shaped marking on back
- Six equal size eyes arranged in pairs
Venom Effects
While not common, brown recluse bites can cause considerable skin damage and illness. Seek care immediately if bitten.
Their venom destroys skin tissues, leading to these wound symptoms:
- Sharp stinging
- Itching
- Blistering
- Open ulceration
- Purple margins
- Eschar formation
Healing can take 6-8 weeks or longer depending on severity.
Hobo Spiders
Despite some fears about hobo spider bites, recent research indicates this species has venoms similar to other common spiders and do not inflict dangerous wounds.
Appearance
Medium brown in color, hobo spiders have markings on their bodies that resemble chevrons:
- About 1-inch in size
- Long legs relative to body
- No distinct violin shape on back
Symptoms
Hobo spider bites can cause mild effects like:- Immediate burning pain
- Reddening
- Mild itching
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache and nausea
Their bites are not known to induce severe skin injuries or illness. Basic first aid should help alleviate discomfort.
Yellow Sac Spiders
Yellow sac spiders deliver toxic venom through their bites. Keep an eye out for them inside Washington homes and buildings.
Identification
Yellow sac spiders have:
- Bodies just under 1/2 inch
- Eight eyes in two rows
- Long front legs
- Greenish-yellow hue
- Dark yellow abdomen with faint markings
- Prominent black jaws
Bite Care
Though painful, most yellow sac spider bites do not cause major issues beyond initial wound site pain and redness. See a doctor if you have an allergic reaction or symptoms worsen.
Avoiding Spider Bites in Washington
You can take these basic precautions to help prevent bites from venomous Washington spiders:
- Reduce clutter and check shoes/gear before use
- Use insect repellent when hiking or camping
- Inspect or shake out laundry and towels
- Install lighting in dark corners
- Seal cracks in your home’s foundation
While spider bites are inevitable, being aware of your surroundings and taking preventative measures can lower your risk overall.
What to Do if Bitten
If you are bitten, try to capture or take a photo of the spider for identification. Seek medical care for bites from black widows, brown recluses, or if symptoms seem severe or don't improve.
Clean the wound, apply ice, elevate the area, and take OTC pain relievers to manage discomfort from less toxic spider bites.
Other Venomous Washington Spiders
Here are a few other spiders found in the state that can deliver toxic bites but generally only cause short-lived pain:
Western Black Widow
- Shiny black body with red spots or stripes
- Intense immediate pain, trembling, anxiety
False Widow Spiders
- Brown with cream markings on large rounded abdomen
- Low toxicity, stinging bite
Woodlouse Spiders
- White-gray color, about 1/4 inch long
- Temporary local pain
Learn how to identify venomous spiders locally so you can take quick action if bitten and monitor for life-threatening symptoms.
When to Call a Health Professional
Seek emergency medical help if bitten by a black widow or brown recluse spider. Get medical advice anytime you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Prolonged, severe pain
- Extensive swelling and redness
- Fl
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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