Why Are Black Widows Dangerous?

Black widows are the most venomous spider in North America. Their venom is about 15 times stronger than rattlesnake venom, and uses a chemical called alpha-latrotoxin to overwhelm nerve cells and cause immense pain.

Can a dead black widow hurt you?

In rare and extreme cases, black widow spider venom poisoning may lead to seizures and even death. Death generally doesn't occur in healthy adults. Young people, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to serious complications and death from a black widow spider bite.

Are black widows aggressive to humans?

Generally speaking, Black Widows are not aggressive and will avoid people if at all possible. Most bites occur when a person accidentally invades the spider's space, often without prior knowledge.