Black Widows

Black widows are one of the most venomous spiders found in Sacramento, California. They are known for their distinctive black body with a red hourglass-shaped marking on the abdomen. While black widows are not aggressive, they can bite if they feel threatened. Their venom can be dangerous and potentially deadly, especially for young children and the elderly. In this article, we will discuss how to identify black widows in Sacramento and how to control them.

Identification

Identifying a black widow spider is relatively easy due to their unique appearance. They have a shiny black body with a red or orange hourglass-shaped marking on the abdomen. Female black widows are larger than males and can grow up to 1.5 inches in length. Males are much smaller and have a lighter coloration. Black widows are typically found in dark, sheltered areas, such as garages, sheds, and woodpiles.

Control

There are several ways to control black widows in your home or yard. The following methods are effective at reducing the number of black widows in your area:

Remove Clutter: Black widows love cluttered areas, such as piles of wood, debris, and cardboard. Removing clutter from your yard can help reduce the number of black widows in your area.

Seal Cracks and Holes: Black widows can enter your home through small cracks and holes. Sealing these openings can help prevent them from entering your home.

Use Sticky Traps: Sticky traps are a non-toxic way to capture black widows. Place the traps in areas where black widows are likely to hide, such as garages, sheds, and basements.

Use Insecticides: Insecticides are an effective way to kill black widows. Be sure to read the label and use the insecticide according to the instructions. Keep in mind that insecticides can be toxic and should be used with caution.

Call a Professional

While the above methods can help reduce the number of black widows in your area, they may not eliminate them entirely. If you have a severe infestation or are uncomfortable dealing with black widows, it's best to call a professional pest control company. Pest control companies have the tools and expertise to safely and effectively remove black widows from your home and yard.

Conclusion

Black widows are a dangerous pest that should be taken seriously. Identifying and controlling them is essential to protect your family and pets from their venomous bite. While there are several ways to control black widows, it's best to call a professional pest control company if you have a severe infestation or are uncomfortable dealing with them. Remember to always exercise caution when dealing with black widows, and never attempt to handle them on your own.