Table of Contents
- Warning About Black Widow Spiders
- Growing Concerns
- Rescue Volunteers' Role
- Understanding the Bite
- Identifying Black Widow Spiders
- Call for Government Action
- Defra's Statement
Deadly black widow spiders could potentially establish themselves in Britain if officials do not take measures to prevent stowaway pests, warns an expert.
Concerns have intensified after the arrival of hundreds of dangerous creatures, including lethal scorpions and snakes, this year through food imports, goods shipments, luggage, and parcels.
Deadly black widow spiders could get established in Britain if officials do not take measures to prevent stowaway pestsCredit: Alamy
Rescue volunteers report that they are increasingly being called to remove these unwanted creatures from people's homes.
They are particularly concerned about the black widow, which is native to the Americas, Asia, and Australia.
While its bite is rarely fatal to adults, it can be deadly for children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Black widows are often confused with the harmless false widow spider.
However, the real black widows are larger, measuring up to 1.5 inches long, and feature a distinctive red hourglass pattern on their abdomen.
Chris Newman, from the National Centre for Reptile Welfare, is urging the Government to form a dedicated team to address this crisis.
He stated, “I don’t want to incite panic, but it is essential for people to be informed. This is a public health concern, and the Government is neglecting it.”
“My greatest worry is that black widow spiders could become established in this country, yet customs officials are not even checking for them.”
Chris mentioned that the charity, located in Hadlow, recently retrieved several Australian black widows discovered at the Dartford Crossing in a shipment from Australia.
He also noted that they frequently encounter the saw-scaled viper—one of the world’s most dangerous snakes—arriving in shipments of sandstone from India.
The environment department, Defra, stated: “We are continuously assessing new risks.”
It also emphasized its commitment to preventing the entry of such pests and urged travelers to inspect their luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I find a black widow spider?
If you find a black widow spider, it is best to contact a pest control professional for safe removal. Avoid handling it yourself, as their bites can be dangerous.
Are black widow spiders common in Britain?
No, black widow spiders are not native to Britain, but there is a concern that they could establish themselves if not properly monitored and controlled.
How can I identify a black widow spider?
Black widow spiders are identifiable by their glossy black bodies and the distinctive red hourglass marking on their abdomens. They can grow up to 1.5 inches in length.
