Black Widow Spider
Lactrodetus mactans

This spider is named for the popular misconception that the large female always eats the tiny male after mating, which is something many female spiders sometimes do when hungry. Widows spin a tangled web and hang upside down so the bright red hour glass-like warning color is readily visible to potential enemies.

Fact File

Ecological Role: Predator

Habitat: Fields and urban areas

Adult Lifespan: 3 yrs

Prey: Small insects