INFORMATION LEAFLET –

ADVICE ON FALSE WIDOW L64

T HE FALSE WIDOW

False widow spiders belong to the genus and the term is most often used in reference to three found in association with or near buildings and gardens, Steatoda bipunctata, and . All have globular shaped bodies and their name derives from the fact that they are commonly mistaken for black widow spiders which are in a different genus (Lactrodectus), but the same family (). Black widow spiders are not found in the UK. http://wiki.britishspiders.org.uk/index.php5?title=False_Widow_Spiders

The False Widow Spider is believed to have arrived in Britain in crates of fruit from the in the late 19th Century, with the first reported sighting in Torquay in 1879. It is not an aggressive species towards humans and is only likely to bite when accidentally prodded or squashed, or trapped in clothing. The spread of the species is most likely to be the result of a changing climate.

Most peoples concern comes from the fact that the spider can deliver a painful bite. HOWEVER, the venom is quite mild and there is little difference between a or bee sting in its effect.

S PIDER BITES

It is only a small number of the larger species of spider which have fangs capable of penetrating human skin. There have been a number of reports of people being bitten by spiders and false widows are often the focus of this, particularly in the media recently. However, it is difficult to obtain accurate evidence as those complaining of bites often do not see the spider but assume they are the culprit because of the absence of a bee or wasp. Alternatively, they only get a brief glimpse. Rarely is the spider captured so that an accurate identification can be carried out.

Being bitten by the False Widow spider is not very common – much less common than a wasp or bee sting. In 2009, there was a report of a woman from West Cumbria being bitten by a false widow spider which caused her to suffer from an allergic reaction. In fact it would appear that such a reaction is the most likely cause of a problem to humans, as otherwise the bite has been compared to a wasp sting.

LIKELIHOOD OF BEING BITTEN

False widows are sedentary by nature, remaining in their webs and the males are only likely to wander when they are ready to mate. Reports of bites by false widows are difficult to substantiate and may be exaggerated by the media. When you consider the undoubtedly large number of people who are stung each year by and bees, the risk of being bitten by a false widow spider is likely to be relatively small.

Being bitten is likely only if you come into contact with them. Putting a hand into a web, handling one roughly, sitting, lying or touching one by mistake may result in an unfortunate nip. You should be assured that they will not be looking to prey on you!

WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE FOUND ONE

For many people finding a spider of any type can be frightening and stressful. There really is little need to panic or be overly concerned even if you believe it to be a False Widow. Treat it as you would any other spider you may find in your property.

If you don’t mind spiders then simply leave it alone and let it go about its business – it will not bother you if you don’t bother it.

It you want to get rid of it then collect it up using a glass or jar and a piece of firm paper or thin card. Place the glass securely over the spider and slide the card underneath it, trapping it inside. Take the spider outside and set it free. You may prefer to get someone to do this for you!

A range of spider control products are available in from DIY stores and the internet. A private pest control company may be willing to visit. You should be careful however not to pay excessively for any treatment, it really isn’t necessary.

S UMMARY

In summary, being bitten by a spider is unlikely in this country in normal circumstances, and the effect of a bite is unlikely to be worse than being stung by a wasp or bee. A more serious problem is only likely to arise in the event of an allergic reaction or if the person is already compromised by other health issues.

Nevertheless, if severe swelling or ulceration results from a suspected it is recommended that you see your doctor immediately or visit an Accident and Emergency Department.

F URTHER ADVICE

Wrexham County Borough Council previously provided a pest control service, but this service ceased as of 1st April 2015 to non-Council owned premises. Council tenants can continue to request a pest control treatment by contacting the Council via the contact details below.

For residents/owners of non-Council owned premises, unfortunately we cannot recommend any pest control companies but we would recommend that you look for a professional pest controller in a local Telephone Directory or via an internet search engine. Preferably choose a Pest Control company that is a member of a trade association such as the British Pest Control Association (www.bcpa.org.uk) and/or National Pest Technicians Association (www.npta.org.uk).

To obtain further advice on any other pest issues, please contact the Housing, Public Protection and Environment Department:

Telephone: 01978 298989 Email: [email protected] Or visit us at www.wrexham.gov.uk

Sources: British Arachnological Society, 2013 www.britishspiders.org.uk www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment