The overwhelming majority of spiders around your Tallahassee home are harmless and even helpful — they eat the other insects you don't want. But Florida is home to widow spiders, which genuinely warrant caution. Knowing how to spot them and where they hide keeps your family safe without fearing every web in the garage.
The widow spiders here
Florida has several widow species, including the southern black widow and the brown widow (now very common around homes). The black widow is glossy black with a red hourglass on the underside of the abdomen. The brown widow is mottled tan-to-brown with an orange hourglass, and its egg sacs are distinctive — round with spiky projections. Both build irregular, strong, tangled webs (not neat wheels) in dark, sheltered spots.
Where they hide
Garages, sheds, under outdoor furniture and grills, in meter boxes and electrical boxes, under eaves, in woodpiles, and in cluttered storage. Brown widows especially love the underside of patio furniture, mailboxes and playground equipment.
Note on the brown recluse: despite the fear, the brown recluse is not established in most of Florida — Tallahassee sightings are almost always a misidentified harmless spider. Widows are the ones to actually know here.
How dangerous are they?
A widow bite is medically significant and can cause muscle pain, cramping and other symptoms — worth prompt medical attention, especially for children or older adults. That said, widows are not aggressive; bites usually happen when one is pressed against skin (reaching into a box, putting on a stored glove or shoe). The brown widow's venom is generally less potent than the black widow's.
How to keep them out
- Declutter garages, sheds and storage; store items in sealed bins.
- Shake out stored shoes, gloves and cushions before use.
- Wear gloves reaching into woodpiles, meter boxes and under furniture.
- Reduce exterior lighting that draws the insects spiders feed on.
- Knock down webs and egg sacs from eaves and furniture.
Quick answers
How do I know if it's a widow?
The red or orange hourglass on the underside of the abdomen, plus a tangled web in a dark, sheltered spot. The brown widow's spiky, round egg sac is another giveaway.
Should I worry about every spider?
No — most are harmless and helpful. Learn the widow markings and treat the rest as free pest control.
Finding widows where your family spends time? Book a free inspection and we'll target them and the harborage — see spider control.
Dealing with this pest right now?
A free inspection identifies the pest, the entry points and an exact quote — in writing, with no obligation.
