black widow spider

The black widow spider is a small, shiny black arachnid known for the distinctive red hourglass shape on its abdomen. Native to North America, it spins irregular, tangled webs and typically inhabits dark, undisturbed areas like garages, closets, and woodpiles. Its venom contains neurotoxins that affect the nervous system, potentially causing pain, muscle cramps, and nausea in humans, though bites are rarely fatal. Black widows are generally non-aggressive and bite only when threatened. Antivenom is available for severe cases, but most bites result in localized pain that subsides without medical intervention.