Northern Black Widow

The Northern Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus), belongs to the cobweb spider family Theridiidae. Its extensive distribution over the eastern and northern United States and Canada is implied by its name. Males are 4 to 5 millimeters long in adults, compared to adult females' lengths of 9 to 11 millimeters. They have a mostly black appearance, similar to other widows, with the exception of a tiny red hourglass-shaped marking on the abdomen. The hourglass sign on a northern black widow is not whole, unlike its close cousins, which can be used to tell it apart from other widows.

Due to their strong venom, which can result in latrodectism, northern black widows are among the most dangerous spiders in New Jersey. Injuries from bites frequently cause discomfort, nausea, perspiration, and stiffness of the muscles. It’s a good idea to seek medical attention if you get bitten by a northern black widow.