When it comes to widow spiders, Brown is the new Black.

A recent survey of widow spiders in Southern California led by retired UC Riverside entomologist Richard Vetter  revealed new information about their distribution in California.  Currently brown widows are 20 times more common then black widows in Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, at least in and around urban homes.

Experts believe they may eventually move up the coast of California and into the Central Valley.

Unlike Black widows, Brown widow spiders aren’t found in dry habitats or agricultural areas. They love urban environments and structures.  Preferred web building sites include; empty containers such as buckets and flower pots, mail boxes, entry way corners, under eaves, storage closets and garages,.Recessed hand grips of plastic garbage cans, undercarriages of vehicles that are stationary for long periods and the undersides of outdoor furniture and wrought iron railings are also common hideouts.  They choose places that are more exposed than sites chosen by black widows putting them at higher risk for biting opportunities.

Drop per drop, brown widow spider venom is as toxic as other widow spider species. But it appears that these spiders do not have the ability to inject as much venom as the black widow or others of the widow species.  Bites occur mostly through accidental contact and the pressing of the spider against skin.  Symptoms of this widow’s bite include a red mark at the bite site and some localized pain.  The bite is not usually life threatening, and is considered less serious than a black widow’s.  This doesn’t mean that more serious reactions can’t happen, especially if a child is involved.  You can always call your physician just to be safe.

Differences between Brown and Black Widows:

• The color of the brown widow spider is tan to brown or gray vs. stark black.
• The egg sac of a brown widow has tiny spikes all over the surface; a black widow’s egg sac is smooth.
• Brown widows produce more eggs and offspring than black widows.
• A brown widow’s bite is usually less severe than a black widow bite as they tend to inject less venom.
• Brown widows live in open areas whereas black widows hide in dark corners and crevices.

For the safety of family and friends, it’s best to get rid of these widows, whether they are black or brown. Corky’s Pesst Control provides the ultimate in spider control in Southern California, with our Ultimate Pest Control Service.