This season I am concerned about the Black Widow Spider. This species is by far the most notorious because of its toxic venom.

This spider prefers dark, quiet places to build their webs, such as garages, storage sheds, under bushes, in meter boxes or any kind of box, etc. When working in these areas, always wear gloves and be very cautious placing your arms and hands into places you can’t see. Her bite can be dangerous, so if bitten call Poison Control right away for advice and consider a trip to urgent care.

A successful monsoon season produces large numbers of termites, crickets, ants, flying insects of all kinds, and spiders. Most species of spiders are nontoxic and beneficial; they help control the bug population around our homes. The Orb Spider, Wolf Spider, and ever popular Tarantula always get attention. These spider species—ranging from colorful, fast, and large, respectively—can be intimidating to see in action but are actually harmless to people.

We find the fact that people fear the spider more than any other pest very interesting. Most are not dangerous, some are quite colorful, and yet the majority of us find them creepy and very uncomfortable. We guess movies depicting giant spiders attacking and invading us have not added to their appeal!