The black widow prefers seclusion, but its bite poses a serious health risk to people.
It remains hidden in recesses and crevices, or in dark moist places such as shoes
that are seldom worn. To remove a black widow from the house, use the wand of your
vacuum cleaner and suck it up. Seal outside entry ways and cracks in the vicinity
where the black widow was found. Use your vacuum wand to clean those hidden, or overlooked,
spots within storage areas. Proper cleaning and sealing will usually prevent future
black widow entries into your house.
Photo: RF Billings, TX Forest Service
