Brown Widow Spiders in Central Arkansas
Commonly referred to as cobweb spiders due to their erratic web patterns, brown widow spiders are prevalent in Central Arkansas. Originally introduced to the U.S. via Florida, their range expanded notably during the 1990s. While bearing resemblance to the black widow, the brown widow distinguishes itself with a yellowish-orange or reddish-orange hourglass marking, contrasting with the bright red of its counterpart. While male brown widows are non-aggressive, the venomous bite of the female delivers a neurotoxic to its prey.
Brown Widow Spider Habitat
Brown widows construct their webs in sheltered, hidden locations around residences and among wooded vegetation with branches. Commonly favorite spots for web-building by brown widows include empty receptacles like buckets and nursery pots, mailboxes, corners of entryways, beneath eaves, within storage compartments and garages, and underneath outdoor furniture and wrought iron railings. These spiders tend to dwell in areas that are more exposed than those preferred by black widows, potentially increasing the likelihood of human encounters and the risk of being bitten.
Brown Widow Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
In contrast to the more severe effects of a black widow bite, the bite of a brown widow spider usually results in minor symptoms. Despite the brown widow spider’s venom being twice as potent as that of the black widow, it’s believed that the brown widow injects a lesser amount of neurotoxin. This spider species exhibits shy behavior and typically avoids interactions with humans. Interestingly, male and juvenile brown widow spiders refrain from biting altogether. While bites from brown widows typically pose no significant medical threat, individuals with heightened sensitivity should promptly seek medical assistance if experiencing severe pain and swelling.
If you are dealing with a brown widow spider problem in your home, contact your local spider exterminators for help.
