Brown Widow Identification

A less common relative of the black widow, established in patches across Missouri and Kansas, with a milder but still medically relevant bite. Distinguished by a spiky egg sac and mottled brown coloring.

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How to Identify It

Tan to dark brown with a mottled geometric pattern on the abdomen and an orange (not bright red) hourglass underneath. Egg sacs are distinctly spiky/tufted, unlike the smooth round sac of a black widow.

Size: Body 8–10 mm

Commonly Confused With

Black widow (glossier, solid black, bright red hourglass, smooth round egg sac) and American house spider (no hourglass marking at all).

Why It Shows Up

Same undisturbed, sheltered habits as black widows — under outdoor furniture, in garages, meter boxes, and protected corners.

Where Homeowners Find It

Under patio furniture and eaves, garage corners, water meter boxes, and mailboxes.

Seasonal Activity in KC

Most visible summer through fall.

Risk Level

Bite symptoms are generally milder than a black widow's but can still cause significant local pain and cramping; seek medical attention for any suspected bite.

What You Can Do Yourself

• Wear gloves when handling outdoor furniture, garage items, or stored boxes.
• Knock down webs and remove egg sacs with a broom.

What Professional Treatment Involves

Same approach as black widow: inspection, physical removal of spiders and egg sacs, and treatment of harborage areas around the exterior.

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Common Questions

How do I tell a brown widow from something that looks similar?