March 21, 2025

Common Spiders That Look Like Black Widows in Auburn, WA, and Utah

Nobody wants to walk into their garage or backyard and come face-to-face (or face-to-leg?) with a spider that looks suspiciously like a black widow. For residents of Auburn, WA, or the Salt Lake City and Provo, UT areas, it’s essential to know how to identify these creepy crawlers and when it’s time to call in the pros.

With all kinds of look-alikes to contend with, being able to properly ID the pest you’re up against is key if you want to be successful. So what are some spiders that look like black widows?

We’ve got you covered with the lowdown on which spiders resemble black widows, why they’re a concern, and how Zunex Pest Control can safely and effectively manage any unwelcome spider infestations.

What Are Spiders That Look Like Black Widows?

Large, hairy brown spider

Here’s the thing—black widows are infamous for their glossy black bodies and that ominous red hourglass marking on their abdomen. But did you know there are several imposters out there that share a similar look? These "look-alike" spiders can cause quite the stir, even if they aren’t all as dangerous.

One common doppelgänger in the Auburn and Utah regions is the false widow spider. False widows are often mistaken for their venomous cousins due to their dark brown color and, in some cases, faint red markings. While they can bite, their venom is significantly less potent.

Another local contender is the western black widow: Utah and Washington residents might encounter this closer relative to the classic southern black widow. The western version is just as venomous and features the same red hourglass, but its range makes it slightly more common in these areas.

And of course, the hobo spider pops up here and there. Although it doesn’t match the black widow's striking beauty mark, its tan body and similar size have fooled plenty of arachnophobes into thinking they're dealing with something far more sinister.

Why Spiders That Look Like Black Widows Are Still a Problem

Brown spider

You might be asking yourself, “Does it really matter if the spider in the corner of my garage is a look-alike? I don’t want it moving in, either way.” Fair enough. The real issue with these spiders is that identifying them can be tough unless you’re a seasoned expert.

While some are harmless, others (like actual black widows) pack venom that can cause severe symptoms such as muscle pain, cramping, sweating, and even difficulty breathing.

False widows, while less dangerous, can still deliver a painful bite that you definitely don’t want to experience during your weekend BBQ. And hobo spiders? Their bites have been debated for years, but some suggest they can lead to mild necrosis, irritations, and swelling.

The takeaway? If you aren’t sure about the spider species hanging out in your home or yard, it’s best to err on the side of caution and deal with it promptly.

Handling Spider Infestations on Your Own—What Works and What Doesn’t

Black widow spider in a web

Sure, there’s a certain satisfaction in tackling household invaders with a vengeance. Grab a shoe, spray some store-bought pesticide, or vacuum your unwelcome guest into oblivion. But when it comes to potential black widow imposters (or the real thing), DIY approaches often don’t cut it.

First off, killing visible spiders doesn’t address the eggs or nests they’ve left behind. Also, many over-the-counter products aren’t potent enough to handle infestations or eradicate multiple species at once. Plus, can we all agree that smashing a spider the size of a small coin with your sandal isn’t exactly fun?

Instead, consider calling in professionals who specialize in spiders native to your area. Zunex Pest Control’s mission is to handle these pests without damaging your home, your health, or the environment.

Zunex Pest Control—Your One-Stop Solution for Spider-Free Living

When it comes to spider infestations, Zunex Pest Control means business. Our team understands the spider varieties that call Auburn, WA, and Salt Lake City and Provo, Utah, home—whether it’s a false widow scuttling across your driveway or a black widow lurking in your woodpile.

Our pest control services combine cutting-edge technology with safe and effective treatment methods. When you choose Zunex, you’re securing your home and family from unwelcome spiders with a team that delivers peace of mind.

Our experts not only eliminate existing infestations but also implement preventative measures to ensure spiders don’t return. From indoor treatments to outdoor perimeter protection, we tailor our approach to meet the specific challenges of your property and region.

Don’t Fight Spiders Alone—Zunex Has Your Back

Whether it’s a black widow or one of its convincing look-alikes making your skin crawl, spiders are one problem you don’t have to face alone. Zunex Pest Control is here to safely and efficiently solve all your creepy-crawly concerns in Auburn, WA, and the Salt Lake City and Provo, Utah areas.

Say goodbye to spider stress and hello to a safer, pest-free home. Whether it’s spiders that look like black widows or something else entirely, we’ve got you covered.

Call or visit Zunex Pest Control today to schedule your service and keep unwanted arachnids out of your space for good!

Schedule Today!

Contact your local Zunex pest expert to schedule a treatment today!