16 Unbelievable Facts About False Widow

The False Widow is not actually a widow

Contrary to its name, the False Widow spider (Steatoda) is not a true widow spider. It belongs to the same family but is a separate species altogether. Its distinctive appearance and venomous bite make it one of the most intriguing spiders in the world.

The False Widow is native to Europe

The False Widow spider is commonly found in various parts of Europe, including the United Kingdom. It was accidentally introduced to other regions, such as North America and South America, through global trade and transportation.

There are several species of False Widow spiders

There are over 20 known species of False Widow spiders, with the most common being the Noble False Widow (Steatoda nobilis) and the Canary False Widow (Steatoda canariensis). Each species has its own unique characteristics and habitats.

Female False Widow spiders are larger than males

Like many spider species, female False Widow spiders are typically larger and more robust than their male counterparts. The females can grow up to 15 mm in size, while males are often around 10 mm in size.

False Widows are venomous

False Widow spiders possess venom that they use to immobilize and digest their prey. While their bites are rarely fatal to humans, they can cause significant discomfort, with symptoms including pain, swelling, and in some cases, allergic reactions.

False Widows construct messy, tangled webs

The webs of False Widow spiders are typically irregular and disorderly, consisting of messy tangles of silk strands. These webs are usually built in dark, secluded places such as sheds, garages, and outdoor furniture.

False Widows are opportunistic hunters

False Widow spiders are opportunistic hunters, meaning that they do not spin elaborate webs to catch prey. Instead, they wait for their victims to come close enough for them to strike with speed and precision.

False Widow bites can cause necrosis

In some cases, False Widow spider bites can lead to necrosis, which is the death of tissues in the affected area. This occurs when the venom causes damage to the surrounding cells and blood vessels.

False Widow spiders have distinctive markings

One characteristic feature of False Widow spiders is the presence of striking markings on their abdomens. These markings can vary depending on the species but often take the form of intricate patterns or bold colors.

False Widows are nocturnal creatures

False Widow spiders are predominantly active at night, utilizing their excellent night vision to hunt for prey and carry out their activities. During the day, they usually retreat to their hiding places.

False Widow spiders molt to grow

To grow, False Widow spiders must shed their exoskeletons in a process called molting. During molting, they will temporarily become vulnerable until their new exoskeleton hardens.

False Widows can live for several years

False Widow spiders have relatively long lifespans for arachnids. On average, they can live for two to five years, depending on various factors such as environmental conditions and availability of prey.

False Widow females produce many eggs

Female False Widow spiders can produce multiple egg sacs, each containing anywhere from 20 to 200 eggs. The exact number of eggs varies depending on the species and the female’s reproductive capabilities.

False Widow spiders have poor eyesight

Despite their formidable appearance, False Widow spiders have relatively poor eyesight. They rely on vibrations and sensory cues to detect prey and potential threats.

False Widow spiders are not aggressive towards humans

Contrary to popular belief, False Widow spiders are not aggressive towards humans. They typically only bite when they feel threatened or cornered. Avoiding unnecessary contact and providing them with their own space is key to avoiding bites.

False Widow populations are spreading

Due to their adaptability and ability to hitch a ride on various forms of transportation, False Widow spiders are gradually spreading to new regions around the world. This expansion can be attributed to human activities, such as global trade.

With their venomous bite and intriguing characteristics, False Widow spiders continue to captivate the curiosity of arachnid enthusiasts and researchers alike. Understanding these remarkable creatures helps us coexist with them in a more informed and respectful manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, false widows are fascinating creatures with some truly unbelievable facts surrounding them. From their notorious reputation to their unique adaptations, false widows have become a subject of interest for researchers and arachnid enthusiasts alike. Whether you find them fascinating or frightening, there is no denying their impact on the ecosystem and their ability to adapt and survive in various environments.

FAQs

Are false widows venomous?

Yes, false widows are venomous. However, their bites are generally not life-threatening to humans. While some individuals may experience mild symptoms such as swelling and discomfort, severe reactions are quite rare.

How can I identify a false widow spider?

False widow spiders are typically dark brown or black in color and have a round, bulbous abdomen with cream or white markings. They have shiny bodies and usually measure around half an inch to an inch in size.

Where are false widows commonly found?

False widows are commonly found in areas with mild climates, including the United Kingdom, Europe, and parts of North America. They tend to thrive in urban environments and can often be found in sheds, gardens, and buildings.

Do false widows pose a danger to humans?

While false widows do possess venom, they generally only bite in self-defense. Bites from these spiders are usually no more harmful than a bee sting, unless an individual has an allergic reaction. It is important to exercise caution and seek medical attention if you believe you have been bitten.

How can I prevent false widow spiders from entering my home?

To prevent false widows from entering your home, make sure to seal any cracks or gaps in doors, windows, and walls. Keep your surroundings clean and clutter-free, as these spiders tend to hide in dark, undisturbed areas. Regularly inspect and clean your garden or outdoor area to reduce potential nesting spots.

What should I do if I find a false widow spider?

If you come across a false widow spider, it is best to leave it alone. These spiders are not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. If you are concerned about its presence, you can contact a pest control professional for safe removal.