Pet Critique

Hi there, pet lovers! 🕷️

When we think of iconic arachnids, the Black Widow often comes to mind. Known for their glossy black bodies and striking red hourglass marking, these spiders evoke both fascination and fear. But can they make good pets? In this review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about keeping a Black Widow as a pet, covering their ease of handling, care requirements, health and durability, availability, and initial cost.

Ease of Handling: 1/5

Black Widows are certainly not your typical handling pet. In fact, we strongly recommend minimal to no handling of these spiders. Their venom is highly potent, and although fatalities from bites are exceedingly rare, the effects can still be medically significant. Symptoms of a bite may include severe muscle pain, cramping, sweating, and elevated blood pressure, making caution absolutely essential.

However, Black Widows are naturally shy creatures. They rarely bite unless provoked or startled. This makes them a fascinating pet to observe rather than handle. Their slow, deliberate movements and web-building behavior can provide hours of intrigue for spider enthusiasts.

For those considering a Black Widow, we recommend using tools like long tweezers or tongs for enclosure maintenance to maintain a safe distance. Always approach their habitat with care and respect to avoid accidental interactions.

Care and Maintenance: 5/5

One of the biggest advantages of keeping a Black Widow is their low-maintenance care. These spiders are hardy and adaptable, requiring minimal space and resources. A small enclosure, such as a 1–2-gallon glass or plastic tank with a secure lid, is sufficient. Make sure the enclosure has proper ventilation, as poor airflow can lead to mold or fungal growth, which could harm your spider.

Black Widows are web-dwellers, so they don’t require substrate for burrowing. Instead, you can line the bottom of their enclosure with a thin layer of substrate like coconut fiber or paper towels to make cleaning easier. Adding a few sticks, twigs, or artificial plants will provide anchor points for their webs, mimicking their natural environment.

Feeding is simple. Black Widows thrive on a diet of live insects such as crickets, small roaches, or mealworms. Adult spiders usually eat once or twice a week, while juveniles may need slightly more frequent feedings. Be sure to provide prey that is appropriately sized—smaller than the spider itself—to avoid any risks to your pet.

Water needs are minimal. A small drop of water on the side of the enclosure or a dampened piece of paper towel is usually sufficient to keep them hydrated. Avoid placing an open water dish, as Black Widows may accidentally fall in and drown.

Regular maintenance involves removing uneaten prey and cleaning the enclosure as needed. Fortunately, Black Widows produce very little waste, so cleaning is infrequent.

Health and Durability: 5/5

Black Widows are known for their resilience. In the wild, they thrive in various environments, from deserts to woodlands, and even urban settings. This adaptability makes them relatively easy to care for in captivity.

A healthy Black Widow has a shiny black exoskeleton and an active appetite. However, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures, so maintaining a stable environment is crucial. The ideal temperature range for Black Widows is between 70–85°F (21–29°C), with moderate humidity levels. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or drafty areas, as these can stress the spider or cause health issues.

Interestingly, Black Widows can live surprisingly long for a spider species. Females typically live 1.5 to 3 years, while males have shorter lifespans, often living only a few months after maturity. It’s worth noting that females are the ones most often kept as pets, as their striking red hourglass marking is more prominent, and they tend to live longer.

Availability: 5/5

Black Widows are widely distributed across many parts of the world, particularly in North and South America. In some regions, they may even be found in backyards or basements. However, we don’t recommend capturing a wild Black Widow for several reasons. Wild specimens may carry parasites or diseases, and removing them from their natural habitat can negatively impact local ecosystems.

Instead, it’s best to acquire a captive-bred Black Widow from a reputable breeder or specialized pet store. This ensures you’re getting a healthy spider accustomed to life in captivity. Availability may vary depending on your location, but many arachnid enthusiasts find that sourcing a Black Widow is relatively straightforward.

Initial Cost: 5/5

When it comes to affordability, Black Widows are an excellent choice. The spiders themselves are inexpensive, often costing between $10–$30, depending on their size and age. Juveniles tend to be cheaper than fully grown adults.

Setting up their enclosure is also budget-friendly. A small tank, some twigs, and basic tools for maintenance will likely cost under $50. Since their dietary needs are minimal and insects are readily available at most pet stores, the ongoing costs are low as well.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost of safety equipment, such as long tweezers, which are essential for handling enclosure maintenance. These tools are a small but worthwhile investment for keeping both you and your spider safe.

Final Thoughts: 4.2/5

Black Widows are a unique and mesmerizing addition to any arachnid lover’s collection. Their low-maintenance care, striking appearance, and fascinating behaviors make them an excellent choice for experienced spider enthusiasts or those looking for an intriguing display pet.

That said, they are not ideal for everyone. Their venomous nature demands caution and respect, and they are best suited for individuals who are comfortable observing rather than handling their pets. If you’re willing to provide a safe and secure environment and appreciate the beauty of these iconic spiders from a distance, the Black Widow may just be the perfect pet for you.

Thanks for joining us on this journey into the world of Black Widows! Let us know in the comments—would you keep a Black Widow as a pet, or are they too spooky for your tastes? We’d love to hear your thoughts! 🕸️