Here are some interesting facts about Black Widow spider:
1. Male Black Widow spiders and juveniles of both sexes (which resemble the male) do not bite, so they are not dangerous to humans. 2. The venom of the female Black Widow spider is 15 times more potent than that of the Prairie Rattlesnake. 3. The female will occasionally dine on the male after mating, hence the name "Widow". How to prevent a Black Widow bite: - Keep your garage, shed or outdoor workplace free of clutter, as Black Widows can turn any dark corner or crevice into home-sweet- home, whether it be in an empty container, woodpile, tire or shoe. - Black Widow spiders are not always hanging in their webs, especially during the daytime. If you do see a tangled, erratic-looking web, approach with caution, as she might be hiding. - If you do see the Black Widow spider hanging in her web, do not disturb her or attempt to handle her. She is usually shy and non-aggressive, but if provoked can move very fast and will bite. What to do if you are bitten: - The Black Widow spider may have given you a "dry" bite, meaning no venom was injected. But because the skin was likely punctured, wash the area with soap and water and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. - If you can, try to locate the spider and put it in a baggie or glass jar with a pair of tongs or tweezers, even if it has been smashed. - Young children and the elderly are likely to have a more intense reaction to the venom, so if swelling of the eyelids, reddening of the skin, muscle cramps, muscle spasms, difficulty breathing or vomiting occur, seek medical treatment immediately. Although no one has died from a Black Widow spider bite in the last 10 years, medication can help the muscle spasms and pain, or antivenin may be be administered. People with heart or health problems may have other difficulties or require a hospital stay. |
DID YOU KNOW??? More people die from electric toasters then they do Black Widow Spiders Bites!!!