Black Widow and Brown Recluse Spiders: Identification, Habits, and Safety

Two venomous spiders cause concern in Georgia: the black widow and the brown recluse. Knowing how to identify them and where they hide reduces risk.

Black Widow (Latrodectus mactans)

• Female: ½ inch body, shiny black, red hourglass on abdomen underside.
• Male: smaller, lighter, with red/white markings.
• Outdoor habitats: rock piles, firewood, rotten stumps.
• Indoors: rarely, under furniture or appliances.
• Behavior: timid, bites only when crushed or threatened.

Brown Recluse (Loxosceles reclusa)

• Female: <½ inch, light brown, dark violin-shaped mark on cephalothorax.
• Prefers indoor hiding spots: paper stacks, behind pictures, seldom-used cabinets.
• More commonly encountered in homes than black widows.

Prevention and Control

• Wear gloves moving firewood, rocks, stored boxes.
• Reduce clutter; vacuum regularly.
• Insecticides have limited value—spiders must be contacted directly.
• Georgia Poison Control reported 423 venomous spider bites in 1998.

If bitten, seek medical attention. For spider ID help, consult extension resources.

Black widow female with distinctive red hourglass.

Black widow male, smaller and less venomous.

Black widow in typical web.

Brown recluse showing violin marking.

Another view of brown recluse.