Black widow spiders are typically 3/4 to 3/8 inches long and are most recognized for their red hourglass shape on their back. They can be found all over Georgia including the north Georgia mountains. Black widow spiders tend to spin their webs near the ground in protected areas, such as boxes, under eaves, in firewood, and other areas where they are undisturbed.

Black widow spiders do not bite humans instinctively and the venom is used only as a defense. However, the black widow spider bite can cause severe pain. Young children and the elderly are especially susceptible to a severe reaction to a black widow bite.

Here are some tips to help you avoid black widow spider bites:
•Wear heavy gloves when moving items that have been stored or undisturbed for a long period of time.
•Check your shoes and shake them out before wearing as spiders tend to hide in them.
•When spider webs are visible use caution when putting your hands or feet in the area.

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