Brown Widow Spiders in Anaheim
Though brown widow spiders originated in Florida, they’re now found in warm climates all across the United States – including here in Anaheim. Though these spiders look very similar to black widows, the brown widows have an orangish-yellow hourglass shape on their abdomen instead of bright red. Brown widows are venomous, but only adult females bite.
Brown Widow Spider Habitat
Brown widows are a reclusive species that prefers to build webs in sheltered and secluded areas. They’re drawn to forested areas with lots of vegetation, though they will also build webs in places like empty buckets, planters, mailboxes, and wrought-iron handrails. While brown widow spiders are shy, they don’t hide as well as black widows. For that reason, you’re more likely to come across brown widow webs and sustain a bite from this type of spider.
Brown Widow Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Brown widow venom is nearly twice as potent as that of a black widow, but they don’t inject as much neurotoxin when biting. For that reason, brown widow bites are generally not as severe as those from a black widow. Additionally, this species is shy and only adult females are capable of biting, which makes their bites fairly rare. That said, you should seek medical attention if you believe you’ve been bitten by a brown widow and are experiencing severe pain or swelling.
Brown widows aren’t a houseguest you want to encounter. If you think these spiders are taking over your home or garden, reach out to your local spider exterminators to get rid of them quickly.
