Brown Widow

brown_widow_sm.jpg: Brown widow
Range: Tropical and semi-tropical regions worldwide; introduced into southern United States
Habitat: Forests and woodlands
Conservation Status: Not listed by IUCN
Scientific Name: Lactrodectus geometricus

This is one of five species of widow spiders in North America. It was introduced from Africa into Florida, and now it has spread to other states. The tell-tale red 'hourglass' marking on this spider is still visible, though this species' body can be black, gray, or brown.