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Western black widow

Western black widow

Latrodectus hesperus

A species of Widow spiders, Also known as Western black widow spider

The western black widow (Latrodectus hesperus) is one of the few spider species that can harm humans. Pain from a bite can last up to twelve hours, but they do not bite unless provoked. The western black widow is also known for "sexual cannibalism." The female tend to eat the males after mating.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
Bite Animals
Bite Animals
General Info About Western black widow
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Attributes of Western black widow
Habitat
human dwelling
Adult Food Sources
Insects, arthropods, small vertebrates
Larva Food Source
Small insects, insect eggs, other spiderlings
Biting/stinging
The Western black widow may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Western black widow can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
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Species Status of Western black widow
It can be found in western regions of North America and Canada.
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Adult Size of Western black widow
7 - 16 mm
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Predators of Western black widow Larvae
Ants, wasps, beetles, smaller arachnid species
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Predators of Adult Western black widow
Praying mantises, reptiles, birds, spiders of other species, centipedes
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Interesting Facts About Western black widow
Western black widow can produce silk that is stronger than steel of the same thickness, allowing for incredibly resilient web structures.
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Scientific Classification of Western black widow
Tips for Finding Western black widow
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Youth Habitat of Western black widow
Deserts and Arid Regions, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Western black widow
Deserts and Arid Regions, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Western black widow
Dry and warm weather conditions are more suitable for finding western black widow, as they prefer these conditions for web-building.
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How and Where Can You Find Western black widow at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Western black widow juveniles are often found in smaller, irregular webs close to the ground. Search for them by examining shrubs, tall grasses, and other vegetation at knee height.
Adult Western black widow adults typically create larger, more complex webs often found in dark, secluded areas such as under logs, rocks, and in abandoned burrows. Look for them by identifying their distinctive webs and using a flashlight at night to spot their reflective eyes.
Are Western black widow harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Western black widow
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Toxic to Humans
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Toxic to Humans

Western black widow delivers venom through fangs, primarily as a defense mechanism. Its neurotoxic venom can vary in effect from mild to severe in humans. Symptoms may include pain, cramps, nausea, and, rarely, more severe complications. Long-term effects are uncommon but can involve neurological issues in severe cases.

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Toxic to Animals

Western black widow typically poisons animals through its sting, which can range from a mild to severe reaction. For humans, a sting may cause localized pain, swelling, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Dogs and cats might experience similar symptoms with varying degrees of discomfort. Horses and other larger mammals may show signs like swelling and distress. Small mammals, including mice, are also susceptible to the venom, which can cause serious health issues. Additionally, certain insects may be adversely affected by western black widow's sting, suffering from paralysis or death.

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Bite Humans

Western black widow typically bites humans in self-defense. When threatened, western black widow administers a venomous bite using its fangs, which can cause immediate pain, muscle spasms, and other symptoms. Bites are rare and usually occur unintentionally when humans disturb western black widow's habitat.

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