Brown recluse & black widow spider identification at Springer Professional Home Services in Des Moines, Iowa

Most types of spiders are harmless and don’t pose a huge threat to humans. However, there are two particularly dangerous types of spiders in Iowa: the black widow and the brown recluse. Both of these spiders are known to bite in defense, and their bites have been known to cause serious symptoms. For that reason, it’s smart to familiarize yourself with what these spiders look like along with their behaviors and habitats.

Although bites from brown recluses and black widows are rare, you can protect yourself by learning what to expect when you come across these eight-legged creatures.

Identifying brown recluse spiders 

Brown recluse spiders are infamous for being one of the most dangerous spiders in the nation. Some of the things that help identify these spiders include:

  • They are most commonly a dullish brown color and have a characteristic violin-shaped mark on their cephalothorax.
  • An adult brown recluse can grow up to 11 mm in length, meaning they’re approximately the size of a quarter.
  • Brown recluses aren’t typically aggressive and will try to avoid contact with humans unless directly threatened, which is when they may bite.
  • Symptoms from a bite are usually mild, but serious cases may result in blisters, pain, and even necrosis.

Identifying black widow spiders

Black widows have quite the rep for being the most fearsome spider. Some of the identifying facts about black widows are:

  • Female black widows possess the famous red hourglass mark on their abdomen.
  • These spiders prefer to nest in quiet, dark, undisturbed areas and will not seek out contact with humans unless they are threatened, which is when they may bite.
  • Symptoms from a bite appear shortly after the bite and range from stiffness and pain to nausea, abdominal cramping, chills, and fever.

Preventing black widows and brown recluse spiders

Thankfully, bites from a black widow or brown recluse are rare. When they do occur, it’s crucial to receive medical attention as soon as possible. If you see either of these spiders in or near your home, it’s recommended to call a professional pest control company. At Springer Professional Home Services, we provide thorough inspections and lasting solutions for spider problems., keeping you and your family safe from these dangerous spiders year-round.

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Brown Recluse vs. Black Widow Spider

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