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Latrodectus hesperus- Western Black Widow- Female

  • $39.99

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At a glance

Keeper level
Advanced
Lifestyle
Web-dwelling (Theridiid cobweb)
Adult size
~1.5 inch leg span (female)
Temperament
Iconic and instantly recognizable. A display-only species with markings that make it one of the most talked-about in the hobby.

Keeper notes

Best appreciated as a display species — observe through the enclosure and enjoy the show. Use long feeding tongs for prey delivery and routine maintenance. Not a handling species.
About this species
Scientific Name
Latrodectus hesperus
Common Name
Western Black Widow
World Type
New World
Growth Rate
Moderate
Origin
Western North America (California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, and adjacent states)
Habitat
Scrubland, desert margins, urban environments, sheltered ground-level spaces
Display Appeal
High

Highlights

Healthy, active, and shipped with care
Native range: North America
Adult size: 1.5 inches body
Keeper level: Advanced
Terrestrial — disturbed habitat / woodpiles / rock piles
Display appeal: High

Species profile

Latrodectus hesperus — commonly known as the Western Black Widow — is a New World terrestrial species with a natural range spanning North America. In ideal conditions, adults reach a legspan of 1.5 inches body, displaying the full coloration and presence this species is prized for in the hobby. Maintain temperatures of 70–82°F with 40–60% relative humidity and this animal will reward you with years of reliable display and fascinating behavior.

Listing details

These are field collected Black Widows from the deserts of Southwest USA. 

 

Picture by NV

Care guidance
Keep in a spacious terrestrial enclosure with ample floor area. Maintain 70–82°F and 40–60% humidity. Provide small enclosure with web anchor at least 3–4 inches deep with a secure hide and a shallow water dish — consistency in these basics is the key to a thriving specimen.
$39.99