Busting Black Widow Spider Myths
There Are Many Myths About Black Widows Spiders... Here's What You Need To Know
In our Texas service area, we are sometimes called upon to deal with black widow spiders. When we do, we often have to reassure our customers that black widow spiders are not the creatures of legend they are made out to be. Many of the myths about black widow spiders come from over exaggerations, others are flat out wrong. Let's take a look at these myths and draw some conclusions that will help us protect ourselves, our families, and our pets.
Myth: Black Widow Bites Are Deadly
You may have heard the myth that a bite from a black widow spider will kill you. You may have even been told that a bite from one of these spiders will kill you instantly. But neither is true. There are over 300 million people in the United States. Only 4-8 die from a black widow spider bite each year. That's not bad, considering around 2,500 bites are reported to American poison control centers annually. Those who die from black widow spider bites are usually people with compromised immune systems or those who have an allergic reaction to the envenomation. The vast majority do not die. To put this in perspective: around 53 people die from bee stings each year.
Does this mean you shouldn't be cautious around black widow spiders? Of course not. A bite from a black widow can be extremely painful and may include serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, high blood pressure, and shock. It is best to give this spider its space.
What can we learn from this?
Let cooler heads prevail. If you find a black widow spider on your property, don't go after it with harmful pesticides. You could end up having a more serious health crisis on your hands. Contact a professional pest control technician, have your property inspected, and have that spider dealt with properly.
Why Choose Adams Exterminating?
-
Trained Entomologists & Service TechniciansOur team brings a deep understanding of insect biology and behavior to create targeted pest control strategies. We're equipped with the latest techniques and technologies to effectively eliminate pests.
-
Customized Plans for Every BudgetRecognizing that each space is different, we customize pest control services for every home or business. Our approach involves targeted solutions, addressing specific needs for your environment.
-
Trusted in the Community Since 1947With a legacy dating back to 1947, our pest control company brings decades of experience with a proven track record to keep your space critter-free.
-
Locally Owned & OperatedAs a locally owned business with offices in both Denton and Lewisville, we are rooted in the community and dedicated to serving our neighbors with personalized service.
Myth: Black Widow Spiders Are Aggressive
Has anyone ever told you to watch out for black widow spiders because they're aggressive hunters? Have you heard that female black widow spiders even kill their mates? While they do sometimes kill their mates, it isn't because they are aggressive or evil. Female spiders from many species do this, and they do it for two practical reasons—well, practical to spiders. Spiders need to eat to survive and they don't have a problem with cannibalism. So, sometimes, a female will eat a male spider simply because she is hungry. The second reason is that she is much larger than her mate. Studies have shown that spider species that have females that are larger than males eat those males 80 percent of the time. Since you are much larger than a female black widow, she is not likely to mistake you for a meal. Bites from black widows often happen when humans come into accidental close contact with black widow spiders.
What can we learn from this?
It's a good idea to learn how to avoid contact with black widow spiders, especially if you've seen them on your property. Here are a few prevention tips:
- Wear gloves when working in the yard.
- Be careful when turning over rocks or moving wood debris.
- Closely inspect areas under your home, deck, porch, patio, or other structures, with a flashlight before crawling under.
- Shake clothing, footwear, towels, and other items before using them.
- Check your bed before sliding in.
- Be careful when opening boxes that have come out of storage.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 940-239-9786 today!
-
Do you offer plans or bundles?Yes, we offer three different plans designed to meet your needs and your budget. Our perimeter, Home Guardian, and Home Guardian Plus are all designed to bundle your pest control treatment into a package that fits your needs. If there isn’t a plan that works for you, don’t worry, we will customize one that fits your unique needs.
-
Do you offer pest control to businesses?Yes, we offer both residential and commercial pest control. We will work with the needs of your business to ensure that pests are not a problem. Furthermore, we understand the State of Texas’s Health and Safety Codes when it comes to pesticide use and pest control.
-
Do you offer termite control?
Yes, both our Home Guardian and Home Guardian Plus plans offer termite control using the proven Sentricon® System with Always Active™ along with a termite service warranty.
-
How do I get started?Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate! Regardless of your pest issue, contact us today to speak with one of our technicians. To make a plan, one of our licensed service technicians will come to your home or business and perform a thorough inspection of your property. Then, we will work with you to come up with a solution that meets your needs.
Myth: Bites From Black Widow Spiders Are Excruciating
Not always. It depends on how much venom the spider injects. Male black widow spiders are not likely to deliver as much venom as a female. And bites from a female vary in intensity depending on the level of envenomation.
What's The Truth?
Now that we've looked at the myths, let's examine one truth everyone in Texas should know: ongoing spider control helps keep black widow spiders and other poisonous creatures from establishing themselves in your yard, near your perimeter, and inside your home—and some of those creatures are far more dangerous to have around than black widows.
If you don't have home pest control service for your Texas home, or you're not satisfied with your current service, reach out to Adams Exterminating Company to request a free home estimate. We'll help you get the right plan in place, and help you protect yourself, your family, and your pets from the health risks associated with pests such as the black widow spider.
-
"Highly recommend their service!"I’ve seen a remarkable difference since my last provider. Marc is very friendly and professional.- Ray C.
-
"Can't recommend them enough!"Gerry is always amazing and kind! He helpful and always makes sure our issues get resolved! He is knowledgeable & works hard to get the job done! Can’t recommend him & Adams enough!!- Ashley P.
-
"They go above and beyond!"Great local pest control company. They are surprisingly accessible, and have gone above and beyond to assist me in addressing the unique pest control needs of my property.- Ryan L.
-
"I've been with them since 1997!"I have been with Adams Exterminating since 1997. They are a wonderful company, respond quickly when issues come up. I am very happy with them and highly recommend them.- Elaine P.
-
"They excel in preventative maintenance!"I'm sure their consistent performance and dedication make them a reliable choice for any pest control needs.- Jonathan R.
-
"We feel well taken care of!"Each time the tech comes on the specified dates, he is sure to let us know he will be walking about the yard doing inspections. Very courteous and friendly.- Linda L.
-
"We've been Adam's customers for years!"Our new technician, Chris W., did a great job explaining what he was doing.- Brady K.
-
"Always helpful in every way!!"Carl is always amazing! Very attentive personable and just kind! He always makes sure we are taken care of and checks on prior issues! I can’t rave enough about the office staff either! Always helpful in every way!!- Ashlee F.
