While most spiders you’re likely to encounter in your home and yard are harmless, a few species of venomous spiders are present in the Gold Coast of Florida. Prevention of spider bites involves eliminating the insects as part of a pest control program carried out by professionals like Haggerty Services.

Residents can avoid spider bites by shaking out clothes and shoes that haven’t been worn for a long time and donning gloves and a long-sleeved shirt when sorting through closets or storage areas like attics. These are the venomous spider species residents of the Gold Coast may encounter:

Southern black widow: This variety is identified by a black body with a red hourglass figure on the abdomen. Effects of its venom may include cramps, nausea, sweating and breathing problems. Black widow bites are rarely fatal, but must be considered dangerous. Prompt medical attention usually produces complete recovery.

Red widow: Found in the central and southern part of the state, this spider nests in residential palmetto bushes and sand scrub. It is identified by a black body with a reddish head and red spots on the top of the abdomen and a red mark on the underside that does not resemble the hourglass shape of the black widow. Symptoms of a red widow bite are similar to a black widow and require immediate medical attention.

Brown widow: Usually displaying a brown or gray-to-black appearance with an orange or yellow hourglass on the abdomen, the species is found along the coast in the southern part of the state. It usually weaves its web in structures and prefers areas well lit by sunlight.

Brown recluse: Though not well-established in Florida, the recluse prefers the interior of buildings and homes. It is a medium to large spider, commonly brown or tan and its bite produces tissue death in the immediate area and results in a deep wound that requires weeks to heal.

Haggerty Services has served Palm Beach and Broward County with experienced pest control services since 1975. Call us for more advice about eliminating venomous spiders from your home and yard.

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