Family Owned Pest Control in Washington & Utah
License # 101704
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- License # 101704
Black widows may sound like something straight out of a horror movie, but they can be an all-too-real encounter.
While these spiders are fascinating in their own right, finding one in your home or on your property is more than just creepy—it’s concerning.
Before jumping to conclusions about these eight-legged visitors, it’s important to get familiar with their habits and what makes them tick (or, more accurately, spin their webs).
So where do black widows live in the Greater Puget Sound area? Are they even anything we need to worry about here?
At Zunex, we understand how unsettling it can be to deal with spiders of any kind, and we’re here to remove them with care.
Black widow spiders are easily recognized with their shiny black bodies and the iconic red hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen.
Known for their venomous bite, these spiders are commonly misunderstood. While their venom is potent, black widows aren’t aggressive by nature and tend to bite only when they feel threatened or cornered.
For homeowners in the Greater Puget Sound area, black widows usually scuttle into yards or homes seeking shelter, food, and warmth, though they aren’t as common as you might think (more on this below).
But for those that can be found here, where exactly are they hiding? You’d be surprised at how resourceful these little arachnids can be in finding the perfect spot to set up shop.
First, take a breath of relief. Black widows aren’t as common in the Greater Puget Sound area as they are in other parts of Washington, largely due to the region’s cooler climate.
With that said, small populations can still be found in sheltered, warm areas.
Most of the time, though, you’re far more likely to encounter false black widows, a different species often mistaken for their more dangerous counterpart.
False black widows (Steatoda species) share similar physical traits with true black widows, such as a dark, glossy appearance and similar size, but they lack the distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen.
Though false black widows can bite if provoked, their venom is significantly less potent than that of the true black widow. Their bites may result in minor symptoms such as mild pain, redness, or localized swelling, which typically subside without medical intervention.
Nevertheless, it's always wise to exercise caution if you suspect a spider might be a false black widow to avoid unnecessary contact. We’ll give you tips on how to prevent and eliminate black widow spiders later in this post, which are tips you can also apply to false black widows, too.
Whether it’s a true or a false black widow spider, there are a few areas where spiders of all kinds prefer to hang out. Here’s an overview:
If your backyard is starting to resemble an all-you-can-eat buffet for insects, black widows might not be far behind. These spiders love to hang out in areas that are dark, quiet, and undisturbed. Think woodpiles, garden sheds, and the tight corners of an outdoor storage bin. Decks and porches with plenty of nooks and crannies are also prime real estate for black widows.
Their sticky, irregular webs are built closer to the ground and often tucked into tight spaces where they will rarely be disturbed. If it’s been a while since you moved that pile of logs or cleaned under the patio furniture, it’s worth giving it a closer look.
Crawl spaces and basements are some of the most common hangouts for black widows and other types of spiders.
Cool, dark, and humid, these hidden areas are great for trapping other insects, which means an open buffet for hungry spiders. Homeowners often forget to check these places, leaving black widows with an ideal setting to thrive.
Garages and sheds often double as cozy hideouts for black widows. These spaces tend to offer insulation from the elements, along with plenty of clutter where spiders can easily find hiding spots. Cardboard boxes, gardening tools, and even old furniture can all become unintentional homes for these spiders.
For barns or larger outdoor structures, black widows may gravitate toward rafters, corners, or underneath shelving units where insects are likely to congregate.
While black widows prefer outdoor settings, they’ll sneak inside your home if the conditions are right. Cluttered areas like attics, closets, or even rarely used shoes can house them. Entry points around doors, windows, or vents can make it easier for these arachnids to wander in.
While black widows prefer to keep to themselves, sharing your home with one isn’t ideal. Their venom is indeed strong and can cause symptoms such as severe pain, muscle cramping, and nausea, particularly in children, the elderly, or pets.
Although their bites are rarely life-threatening, they are painful and often require medical attention.
Beyond the potential health risks, discovering black widows on your property can be distressing for anyone—whether it’s in a forgotten closet or just under the porch steps.
If the very thought of black widows (even false ones!) lurking in or around your home sends shivers down your spine, don’t worry—we’re here to help. At Zunex, we specialize in pest control services designed to provide peace of mind, all while respecting your home and the environment.
Here’s how we handle black widow infestations with precision and care:
We start with a thorough inspection of your property, paying close attention to areas where black widows are most likely to hide. By locating their webs and common habitats, we can create a tailored treatment plan based on your home’s unique needs.
Using safe and effective solutions, we carefully remove black widows from your property. Our team focuses on strategies that not only eliminate existing spiders but also prevent them from returning in the future.
Black widows thrive in undisturbed spaces, which is why we offer recommendations to keep them from settling in. From sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s foundation to reducing outdoor clutter, we’ll help you safeguard your property with long-term prevention tips.
When it comes to black widows, knowledge is power, but action makes the real difference. At Zunex, we know the stress of dealing with pests and make it our mission to make your home feel safe and secure.
Whether you’re in Auburn, WA, or the broader areas around Salt Lake City and Provo, Utah, you can trust Zunex to handle your pest control needs. We don’t just remove pests. We work with you to create a safe, spider-free environment for your home.
Don’t wait until you stumble upon these eight-legged visitors—take action today.
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