False Widow - a name that immediately conjures images of the extremely venomous black widow. In truth the false widow is a separate genus that bears a superficial resemblance. The name can apply to over 100 species of spider but Steatoda nobilis is the one rapidly spreading across the UK.
We recently spotted one on a wall and it prompted me to conduct some more research. As anyone reading this blog will know, I am all about encouraging my kids to interact with nature and that includes spiders. I published an article some time ago about a large house spider we captured and photographed. My children spent time watching him as he ran around the bath tub and had no problem handling the leggy arachnid. I am helping them to grow without fear or prejudice of the natural world, but clearly I don't want them clasping venomous creatures that can inflict serious bites!
Should I be worried about the UK false widow? Let's consider the facts - 1) No one has ever died of a spider bite in the UK and that includes people bitten by Steatoda nobilis 2) The spiders are typically non-aggressive and don't spend their time hanging about on walls while they wait for an unsuspecting passer by 3) The worst reactions to false widow bites have been attributed to allergic reactions. This isn't any different to the exaggerated response some people experience when stung by a bee or wasp, and it is worth mentioning false widow venom allergy still has not killed anyone.
Steatoda nobilis is an alien species and likely arrived here on produce sent over from the Canary Islands. Global warming is attributed to its spread, but this is still a species that prefers cosy climates and none have been found further north than East Anglia.
Looking at some pictures of post bite reactions (I won't include any on this light hearted blog) we see that reactions vary considerably. For most people it is nothing more than a red bump, others experience greater swelling and a minority suffer local damage to tissue. Recent media cases include a footballer who suffered an allergic reaction and needed the wound cleaned and trimmed and a school boy bitten while he slept. The latter is extremely rare and you really are not very likely to find a false widow or indeed a common house spider checking out the underside of a duvet.
In summary - are false widow bites dangerous? In my opinion no. Are the bites painful? Yes they can be and sometimes a tingling sensation or tight chest will develop. Clearly that could be frightening, even though it will not result in death. Will I let my kids handle them? No! In the same way I wouldn't let them pick up a wasp, they will not be permitted or encouraged to interact closely with this species. The bite would be painful and potentially trigger a more serious allergic reaction, though this would be rare. The boys are fascinated by all manner of natural wonders but whilst they can appreciate the beauty of an Eyelash Palm Viper, so too they understand that such creatures demand respect and must be observed from a distance.
The false widow has its place in the world. It is following instincts and just wants to survive and reproduce. Without spiders like the false widow we would be overrun with insect pests. They are doing their bit to maintain the status quo and understand nothing of the fear humans feel for them. If your child gets bitten then take them to A&E but don't ever let a nip from one of mother nature's wonders reduce their desire to be outside in the garden or woods and at one with animals and plants.
