How to Identify Florida Spiders

Florida is an incredible place to live. Warm weather, close to the water, and of course Disney World. However, it is not without its downsides. One of these downsides is a hearty population of spiders. Here is a quick guide in how to identify whether your Florida spider is harmless, or potentially dangerous.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Check to see if the spider has a marking in the shape of an hourglass on its back. If so this spider could be a widow spider. Most people think of widows as only being black. However they can be a multitude of browns, grays, red or black. Black widows are quite venomous if you are bitten.

2. Look to see if the spider have a patch of red, orange or yellow on it's back. If so this spider could also be a widow spider. Widows will usually only bite in self defense. Most bites happen while sleeping and rolling over on top of the spider, or putting on clothes that trap a spider between your clothing and your skin.

3. Check to see if the spider has a darkened shape on its back shaped like a violin. If so then this spider could be a recluse spider. Recluse spiders love the warm climate and so are quite often found in the Florida region. Recluse spiders leave a bite that will usually develop into a blister with blue skin around it. If the skin turns purple or black then you have probably developed necrosis on the bite. This can be a serious complication if not taken care of. Not all bites will lead to necrosis but if signs present themselves you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

4. Determine if the spider has six or eight eyes. Most spiders have eight eyes in two rows. However, the recluse spider is the only spider with six eyes arranged in three pairs.

5. Dispose of the spider with caution. Whether or not you believe the spider is poisonous or not, you should still proceed with caution in disposing of the spider. If you truly feel the spider is poisonous, I would go ahead and kill it. If you are unsure, trap it inside a glass or container and move it outside. Spiders are natures greatest insect controller. If its not threatening you, don't threaten it.

Tips & Warnings

• If you believe you have been bit by a poisonous spider, get medical attention immediately.

[mazzaro]

on 9/12/2008 The best way to identify a widow is the web. A widow web looks like pulled cotton, or even better, like halloween decorating web. If you see a fluffy white web (on a porch, in a garage, under your car) look very closely and carefully. It is probably hiding very close by.