Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Look for a web. Wolf spiders can be dark brown or black, but do not weave webs. If the spider does not have a web, it's likely a wolf spider. Orb weaver spiders, however, may be black with yellow spots and weave large, intricate webs. Nursery web spiders weave webs strictly for the purpose of laying eggs. If you see an egg sac, the spider may be a nursery web spider. Nursery web spiders are found near water and can be brightly colored, brown, spotted or black.
Check for red markings. Black widows have an hourglass red marking on the underside of their abdomens and may have faint red dots on the top of their abdomens as well. If you don't see any red, the black spider you've seen is not poisonous.
Watch for jumping. Jumping spiders are common in Virginia and can jump up to 40 times their own height. These spiders come in a variety of colors and typically have hairy legs and large eyes.
Look for horns around the abdomen. Crab spiders are named for their crablike shape. They have thick protrusions from their abdomen and come in a variety of colors, including black. Though these spiders look ferocious, they are not dangerous to humans and eat many garden pests.
Consider the location in which the spider was found. Wolf spiders are common in homes, particularly around basements. Orb weavers, conversely, are more common in the garden. Black widows are frequently found in abandoned areas or at the bottom of wood and rubbish piles. Nursery web spiders live in moist environments. They may take up residence near ponds or in drains after rain and can walk on water.