One of the most deadliest spiders in the world is making its comeback this summer.
Residents of Texas, Arizona, and other southwest states are being advised to remain careful as deadly black widow spiders are making a comeback this summer, as per scientists and pest management professionals.
Experts warn that the neurotoxic venom that the females of this species may unleash is 15 times more potent than a rattlesnake bite and is utilised by them to defend themselves and immobilise their prey, according to Daily Mail.
The venom, called latrotoxin, primarily affects children, the elderly, and the sick. It can cause severe muscle pain and spasms, heart problems, abdominal cramps, and paralysis of the diaphragm, which can cause significant breathing difficulties.
Entomologists at Texas A&M advised that locals should “take precautions when dealing with stored items or working in areas where these spiders might hide,” specifically, “undisturbed sites such as basements and storage areas.”
“They prefer cluttered areas,” according to Bryant McDowell, a pest management specialist who executes training and seminars on the topic for Texas A&M university.
“I have personally come across black widow spiders hanging out in outdoor trashcans, BBQ smoke pits that have been untouched for some time, and underneath patio furniture,” McDowell said.
