Black Widow Spider Identification and Property Tips

Black widows occur in Missouri and should be observed without handling. A suspected bite needs medical attention.

Identification and habits

Missouri has northern and southern black widows. Adult females are often glossy black with red markings underneath, but markings vary and identification should not rely on a single feature. They make irregular webs in sheltered places.

What to do at your property

Avoid reaching blindly into stored items, woodpiles or concealed spaces. Photograph a suspected widow from a safe distance and report its location for identification and service advice. Do not identify a spider solely from a skin reaction.

Photograph the pest clearly and note where and when it appeared. Ask Plank about identification and whether inspection, prevention or selected treatment is appropriate. The service scope and any follow-up are confirmed for your property.

Reference: Missouri Department of Conservation: Black widow.

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