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HARMFUL SPIDER & SCORPION SPECIES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Arachnids to Avoid: THE

Black Widow Latrodectus hesperus

Actual size (View of underside)

Found throughout Southern California. Identified by reddish hourglass or triangle shape on the underside of the abdomen. Generally found outside, near clutter and wood piles. Often make their home in sheds, barbecues, or garages near vents and doors. Bite is generally not felt. Symptoms, when present, appear an hour later: regional pain, tight stomach, numbness. In case of symptoms, seek medical attention.

Brown Widow Latrodectus geometricus Arrived in Southern California in 2000. Appears similar in size and shape to native black widows. Has orange or yellow hourglass shape on abdomen. Bites cause redness and swelling, but are very mild compared to the black widow. Rarely requires medical attention.

Actual size (View of underside)

Desert Recluse Loxosceles deserta Contrary to rampant fears, brown recluse spiders do not inhabit Southern California. The local Desert Recluse spider, however, can be found in arid, inland and desert regions south of Fresno. Identified by consistent tan color, six distinctive eyes, no spines on legs, and fine hairs on abdomen. Recommended bite treatment: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (R-I-C-E). In 10% of cases, venom can cause slow, necrotic, skin-eating reaction that requires medical intervention.

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Bark Scorpion Centruroides sculpturatus

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Usually found inland. Body is pale and smaller than a dime. Sting is the most venomous of all scorpions in North America. Can be life-threatening, often prompting anaphylactic shock in children and the elderly. Seek medical attention immediately.

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