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Brown Widow (Latrodectus geometricus)


Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Brown Widow


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Image Credit: Danny C.
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The Brown Widow is a more timid relative to the well-known and dangerous Black Widow, and though it is less toxic, its bite can pack a punch.



Updated: 01/02/2022; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org
The moment the bright orange hourglass on her belly becomes visible, most people recognize this spider as a type of Widow. The overall brown/gray color and smaller size is standard for a Brown Widow. A black and white (or ivory) geometric pattern is visible on the dorsal (back) side of the abdomen. Legs are two-toned with wide bands of black and brown along the length of each one. It is likely that an observer will see her egg sac before seeing the female that made it. Egg sacs look like small, spiky golf balls. Other Widow spiders have smooth egg sacs.

Brown Widow spiders are native to Africa and have made a home in North America, most recently in California since 2003. The number of Brown Widow sightings in that state has led to research on the effect their presence is having on the native Black Widow population. They successfully compete for space and resources and seem to be outnumbering them in many areas.

While Brown Widows are venomous (as almost every spider is), their venom is not as toxic as the Black Widow because they are smaller-sized and transmit much smaller doses. The good news is that Brown Widows are extremely shy and prefer to flee from danger, rather than strike at the threat. Females protecting silky white egg sacs are most likely to bite since a retreat may cost them their eggs. Cornered or trapped spiders are also more apt to bite as a means of potential escape. Bites, though rare, are painful and victims would be wise to visit a medical professional in the uncommon case of a potential sensitivity to the venom.

Compared to other spiders in the Widow family, this is the least dangerous and most docile. They are becoming more abundant in places where humans tread. Silk webs can be built near houses, garages, sheds, parking lots and even gas stations. Despite the diminished risk of a bite, it is still wise to keep clear of the Brown Widow and leave it undisturbed. The Brown Widow bears a classic warning mark; it is best that we take heed.©InsectIdentification.org


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General Characteristics


Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Insect biting icon
Patterned insect icon
Striped or banded insect icon
Venomous insect icon


Taxonomic Hierarchy


Species Breakdown
Kingdom: Animalia
  Phylum: Arthropoda
    Class: Arachnida
      Order: Araneae
        Family: Theridiidae
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          Genus: Latrodectus
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            Species: geometricus

Identifying Information


Size, Colors, Features
Scientific Name: Latrodectus geometricus
Other Name(s): Grey Widow, Brown Black Widow, House Button Spider, Geometric Button Spider
Category: Spider
Size (Adult; Length): 3mm to 17mm (0.11" to 0.66")
Colorwheel Graphic Colors: brown; black; orange; yellow; ivory; gray
Descriptors: hourglass; spot; biting; venomous; banded; striped


Relative Size Comparison


Typical Size Between 3mm (0.1in) and 17mm (0.7in)
Lo: 3mm
Md: 10mm
Hi: 17mm

Territorial Map*


U.S., Canada, and Mexico
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Territory map graphic of the country of Mexico
Contiguous United States shape map layer graphic
Alaska  
Hawaii  
Prince Edward Is.  
* MAP NOTES: The territorial heat map above showcases (in red) the states and territories of North America where the Brown Widow may be found (but is not limited to). This sort of data is useful when attempting to see concentrations of particular species across the continent as well as revealing possible migratory patterns over a species' given lifespan. Some insects are naturally confined by environment, weather, mating habits, food resources and the like while others see widespread expansion across most, or all, of North America. States/Territories shown above are a general indicator of areas inhabited by the Brown Widow. Insects generally go where they please, typically driven by diet, environmental changes, and / or mating habits.
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