These spiders are about ½ inch in length, with a shiny black color. They will have several reddish marks that may or may not be in the shape of an hourglass on the abdomen.
Generally found outdoors, they prefer dark, undisturbed corners in basement window wells, barns, garages, and sheds. They get their name from a trait of certain species whereby the female will eat the male after mating.
Their bite is dangerous because the venom contains a neurotoxin however, bites rarely kill humans if proper medical treatment is provided.
