A black widow from the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum June 12, 2003.
Black widow spiders are just another critter to keep you awake at night. But the truth is that they'd prefer you just left them alone.
You're more likely to find them in a shed, woodpile or a corner of lawn furniture than in the house.
The spider is dangerous if it feels it must defend itself. Its bite can kill, but it is more likely that you'll experience pain, nausea and cramps. Don't panic, but get medical attention.

