How To Spot Black Widow Spiders In New Jersey

As we know, there are a lot of different spiders in and around New Jersey. Sure they all have eight legs and perhaps are less than pleasing to look at, but it is also fair to say that not all spiders are created equal. Some are simply nuisance pests that don’t pose any real threat aside from giving you a fright, and may even be considered a benefit as they feed on other pests. But there is one species of spider that is quite dangerous and should be seen as a real risk to have living near you and your family. The black widow spider is that spider.

black widow spider in new jersey home

Black widow spiders are generally identified by their shiny black bodies and the distinctive red hourglass-shaped marking on the underside of their abdomens. With eight legs, an arrangement of two rows of eyes, four eyes in each row, and growing to almost an inch and a half in length, the black widow spider can still be a fairly intimidating species of arachnid despite their relatively small size. 

While black widows are fairly uncommon in New Jersey, they are definitely here, and the dangers that they present are very real. Black widows are one of the most venomous spiders in North America, and that venom is powerful enough to have a serious effect on humans. The damage a black widow spider does depends on the location and amount of the injection that the spider delivers through its bite. The venom itself affects the nervous system, and though it’s rare that a black widow bite creates long-term effects, the experience is much less than delightful. Should you think for any reason that you have received a bite from a black widow, seek medical attention immediately. Black widow spider bite symptoms include:

  • Stomach pain 

  • Labored breathing

  • Fever

  • Swollen and itchy bite mark 

The happy reality is, if you've found a black widow in your home, it's probably not too keen to stick around. Spiders, in general, are usually skittish, and the black widow is much more interested in avoiding humans than in biting them. In fact, you're unlikely to receive a bite at all unless the spider somehow ends up trapped against your skin. Still, sometimes they appear in or around the house, and sometimes they even lay eggs there. Preventing spiders is always better than removing them, and though it can be tough work, here are some tips to help:

  • Seal up cracks and crevices in foundations 

  • Caulk and close up any gaps or holes around doors and windows

  • Seal up extra space created by things like wires and pipes entering your home

  • Install door sweeps on exterior doors 

  • Keep windows and doors shut

  • Make sure holes and tears in window screens are repaired

  • Remove clutter in basements, closets, and attics

  • Keep yards neat and store woodpiles away from your home 

Should you find yourself with a black widow infestation, call for professional help immediately. Without the knowledge and experience, trying to search out and eliminate black widow spiders could result in your being bitten. Calling a professional pest control technician not only saves you the work but keeps you out harm's way. Here at Arrow Pest Control we offer top quality spider control and the knowledge to back it up, and if you have a spider infestation we can absolutely help. Our spider control reassures you that your home is free of the dangers from black widow spiders year-round. The Home Protection Plan will provide you with three different options depending on your specific needs and requests. All of which will include several visits per year to ensure that once pests are removed they are not coming back, protection against more than 30 other pests, and free emergency service. By choosing one of our residential pest control plans, you don’t have to worry about a thing, as one of our professionals will handle everything. We will focus on your entire house, including both the interior and exterior, attics, sheds, fences, and even your mailbox, removing and preventing pests along the way. To learn more about our pest control options, call Arrow Pest Control today!

Jeff K

Testimonials

‟I have a service plan with Arrow and use them quite often. Never disappointed, always friendly and knowledgeable and come right out and address the matter. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them at all.”

Jeffrey K.
Marlboro, NJ
Jared L.

Testimonials

‟We have a quarterly service plan with Arrow. They are not only focused on addressing issues they put preventative measures in place to prevent issues from happening, like looking for and sealing the places where bugs can get into the home. The team are professional, friendly, thorough and provide details about every step of their process. We have had several different technicians over the last 2 years and each follows the same process and guidelines. Definitely recommend for treatment and prevention.”

Jared L.
Manalapan, NJ
Jeff K.

Testimonials

‟My family has used Arrow since the early 80's. In our new home we use them as well. Jason came yesterday and did a great job. Thanks again for your great service to our community!”

Jeff K.
Farmingdale, NJ
John C.

Testimonials

‟Best customer service and the owner is the most honest business man. He will tell you the truth and not scam you like the rest of the big named pest control companies. Highly recommend Arrow has my business for life.”

John C.
Bloomfield, NJ
Joe F.

Testimonials

‟I used Arrow Pest Control for the first time today and I was totally satisfied, I reached out to them on Sunday and spoke to Beatrice and she set me up an appointment for Monday morn for an estimate and Monday afternoon the technician came and serviced my house.....I wish I could have gave them 10 stars, very helpful, right to the point, very professional, on time and no games.....I highly recommend arrow pest control in Morganville.......thank you J.F.”

Joe F.
Matawan, NJ
Lauren C.

Testimonials

‟With Covid hitting everyone, the exterminator that helped us was respectful of the safety with a mask, boots and gloves. He was very informative and explained everything as he did it.”

Lauren C.
Old Bridge, NJ
Renee R

Testimonials

‟We’ve been using Arrow for the last 4 years. We have a monthly plan, so they come and service the interior and exterior regularly. We can also call them anytime for anything we see...wasp, wasp nests, rodents, ants, whatever...our coverage literally includes the mailbox at the curb all the way to the furthest point of our backyard fence and everything in between. All the technicians we’ve had, including Jason, were friendly and knowledgeable. But, Jason, goes above and beyond with his service and willingness to do more for his customers. Highly recommend Arrow Pest Control!”

Renee R.
Short Hills, NJ
Lisa M.

Testimonials

‟Tom is amazing! Arrow is the best company! Love their services. They truly care about their clients. ”

Lisa M.
Port Monmouth, NJ
Elena C.

Testimonials

‟Today was my first appointment with Arrow and Jason made everything seamless and efficient. Not only was he knowledgeable, he took his time explaining everything to me which proved he cared. I’m happy to have found Arrow and will continue to request Jason for my services! Thank you!”

Elena C.
Manalapan, NJ
Deb C.

Testimonials

‟All the professional qualities a business such as Arrow Pest Control would expect a service technician to exhibit, Brian, effortlessly presented. From my standpoint, he offered GOLD STAR ”

Deb C.
Jackson, NJ
Mary F.

Testimonials

‟Recommended to us by neighbors, Arrow arrived promptly to treat our new to us home. The house is built on a slab which small ants love to nest in.

Their program is such that they return til the problem is solved. Today was their third visit. Steve was very thorough, professional and had a great sense of humor. I am hoping not to see him again this season! I would recommend based on our current relationship.
Like”

Mary F.
Lakewood, NJ
Kathleen F.

Testimonials

‟I’m so happy we went with Arrow! We had been using another pest control company and still had a lot of spiders and crickets!! We switched to Arrow and after the first use with them, all the bugs were gone. They do a great job, very thorough, professional, friendly and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend using their services if you have any bug issues!”

Kathleen F.
Toms River, NJ
Deborah S.

Testimonials

‟We were very pleased with how easy it was to schedule a first appointment with Rob and how reassuring and thorough his inspection was. A few hours later Josh arrived for the first treatment and was professional and took the time to answer all our questions. We didn’t hesitate to sign-up for Home Protection Program after seeing the quality and level of service we will receive.”

Deborah S.
Monroe, NJ
Dr. Lisa L.

Testimonials

‟Arrow and Brian with Arrow were amazing! He came same day when we heard scary noises in our attic. He found mice and a loose wire and even took a photo so we could see. He worked hard to crawl into a tiny space and we are so appreciate!! We can sleep tonight thanks to him.”

Dr. Lisa L.
East Brunswick, NJ
Thomas N.

Testimonials

‟Extremely professional and always on time. I was having an issue with mice and decided to call Arrow. They were able to get here next day and have an inspection. I set up with one of their monthly contracts and they were out to my home once a week continuously monitoring the situation until it was fully taken care of. I truly couldn’t recommend them more.”

Thomas N.
Monroe, NJ
Arrow Pest Control received an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars from 1380 reviews. 5.0 Read Google Reviews

Request Your FREE Estimate

Schedule Your No Obligation Inspection Today

Arrow Pest Control Blog

Read the latest articles & news

September 25, 2023

Fall Tick Treatments In New Jersey Are A Must

We know what you’re thinking, it’s getting colder out and there’s no need…
Read More
September 13, 2023

Types Of Ticks In New Jersey

There’s an arachnid on the move in backyards across New Jersey. We're not…
Read More
September 1, 2023

Five Home Maintenance Tips To Repel Pests This Fall

It won’t be long before we wake up to chilly mornings and notice leaves…
Read More
August 21, 2023

Where Do Yellow Jackets Build Their Nests & Other Yellow Jacket FAQs

If you’ve lived in New Jersey for any length of time, there’s a good chance…
Read More
August 4, 2023

Lone Star Tick Bites To Blame For Meat Allergy

Late last month, the CDC issued a press release regarding the emergence of a…
Read More
July 25, 2023

Do Bed Bugs Get Worse In The Summer?

The summer travel season is in full swing and as anticipated, bed bugs are…
Read More
July 3, 2023

Spotted Lanternfly Problems in Monmouth County & Throughout New Jersey

Holmdel, Morganville, and communities in Monmouth County as well as elsewhere in…
Read More
June 12, 2023

How To Keep Clover Mites Out Of Your NJ Home

Clover mites are tiny pests that can become a nuisance for New Jersey homeowners…
Read More
June 3, 2023

How To Spot Potential Pest Problems When Buying A Home

According to real estate experts, June is a great time to buy a new home in New…
Read More
May 18, 2023

Why Am I Suddenly Seeing Flying Ants In My Home?

The sudden appearance of flying ants inside your home can be quite unsettling…
Read More