Northern Black Widow Latrodectus variolus

Identification
This spider has shiny black body with red markings.

Location
Uncommon in Ohio

Size
Half inch body

Diet
It feeds on insects and small arthropods.

Habitat
It occurs in southern forests and structures.

Activity Period
May to September

Behavior
It builds irregular webs in dark sheltered areas. It is active in warm months.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in summer.

Population
The population is small and localized.

History
It has always been uncommon in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It avoids humans and bites only defensively.

Facts
Its venom is medically significant but rarely dangerous.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Insects small arthropods | Woodpiles sheds forests | Southern Ohio