Most spider species are relatively harmless, but there are some dangerous species that are common in home infestations, such as the black widow. While black widows are venomous and can be harmful to humans, there are several other spider species that can be mistaken for them due to their similar appearance. It is important to properly identify the type of spider you are dealing with before attempting to control them, as the methods for safely removing different species can vary. Here are some common spider species that can be mistaken for black widows:

1. False Widow Spiders: These spiders, also known as Steatoda nobilis, are native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, but have been introduced to other parts of the world, including the UK and the US. They are similar in size and appearance to black widows, with a shiny, black, spherical abdomen and long, thin legs. However, they do not have the distinctive red hourglass marking on their abdomen, and their venom is not as potent as that of black widows. False widows can bite if provoked, but their bites are not serious and do not require medical attention.
2. Red Widow Spiders: These spiders, also known as Latrodectus bishopi, are native to Florida and are similar in appearance to black widows, with a shiny, black abdomen and long, thin legs. However, they have a distinctive red marking on their abdomen that looks like an hourglass with one side extended. Like black widows, they are venomous and can bite if provoked, but their venom is not as toxic as that of black widows and is not typically harmful to humans.
3. Crab Spiders: These spiders, also known as Thomisidae, are not venomous and do not pose a threat to humans. They are often mistaken for black widows due to their similar size and shiny, black appearance, but they have distinctive front legs that are longer and thinner than their other legs, giving them a crab-like appearance. Crab spiders do not spin webs, but instead rely on their excellent camouflage and ambush tactics to catch their prey.
4. Sac Spiders: Also known as Clubionidae, sac spiders are not venomous. They can be mistaken for black widows due to their very similar appearance, but the main difference between the two is that sac spiders do not have the distinctive red hourglass marking on their abdomen. Sac spiders are nocturnal and spin silken tubes or sacs in which they hide during the day. They are generally not aggressive and only bite if provoked.

If you suspect you have a black widow or other venomous spider in your home, it is important to exercise caution and contact a professional pest control company for removal. They will have the necessary training and equipment to safely remove the spiders and prevent the infestation from returning. If you are unsure of the type of spider you are dealing with, it is best to leave it alone and seek professional assistance.

For more information about the various false black widow spiders out there, or if you have a spider infestation in your home, contact us today.