Quick answer
Black Widow Spiders (Latrodectus mactans) are invertebrates found across North America. The glossy black spider with the red hourglass. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.001 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 1.5 km/h (1 mph), and live 1–3 years (females; males much shorter). They feed on carnivore (insects and other small arthropods) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Sheltered, dark places across North America, especially the southern and western United States.
Key takeaway
Black Widow Spiders (Latrodectus mactans) are invertebrates found across North America. The glossy black spider with the red hourglass. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.001 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 1.5 km/h (1 mph), and live 1–3 years (females; males much shorter). They feed on carnivore (insects and other small arthropods) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Sheltered, dark places across North America, especially the southern and western United States.
Black Widow Spider overview
Black Widow Spider (Latrodectus mactans) is a invertebrate listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.001 kg; lifespan around 1–3 years (females; males much shorter).
Black Widow Spider ecology
Diet: Carnivore (insects and other small arthropods). Habitat: Sheltered, dark spots in fields, sheds, and woodpiles. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Black Widow Spiders and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild black widow spiders are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Black Widow Spider profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Black Widow Spiders inhabit Sheltered, dark places across North America, especially the southern and western United States. Their preferred habitat includes sheltered, dark spots in fields, sheds, and woodpiles, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term pe
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult black widow spiders typically measure about 0.04 m in length and weigh roughly 0.001 kg (0 lb). They can sprint at up to 1.5 km/h (1 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Black Widow Spiders are known for the glossy black spider with the red hourglass — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Black Widow Spider FAQs
What are key facts about black widow spiders?
Black Widow Spiders (Latrodectus mactans) are invertebrates found across North America. The glossy black spider with the red hourglass. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.001 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 1.5 km/h (1 mph), and live 1–3 years (females; males much shorter). They feed on carnivore (insects and other small arthropods) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Sheltered, dark places across North America, especially the southern and western United States.
What is the scientific name of the black widow spider?
Latrodectus mactans — used in research and conservation listings for black widow spiders.
What do black widow spiders eat?
Black Widow Spiders eat insects and other small arthropods, with seasonal and regional variation in Sheltered, dark spots in fields, sheds, and woodpiles.
Where do black widow spiders live?
They are associated with Sheltered, dark spots in fields, sheds, and woodpiles. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of black widow spiders?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.