The Most Venomous Spiders Found in Southwest Florida Pool Cages

Homeowners across Tampa, Sarasota, Naples, and Bonita Springs often ask the same question: “What’s the most venomous spider I might find in my pool cage?” It’s a fair concern—pool cages in Florida provide shelter for many pests, including certain types of spiders. While most spiders you encounter are harmless, a few can pose risks worth knowing about.

Brown Widow Spiders: The Most Common Venomous Spider

The spider we see most frequently in pool cages across Southwest Florida is the brown widow. Many homeowners first notice their distinctive eggs: small, soft sacs with tiny spikes all around them. These unusual egg sacs are often found on windowsills, patio furniture, and inside pool enclosures. A quick Google search for “brown widow egg sac” will show you what to look for.

Brown widows aren’t as deadly as their cousin, the black widow, but their bite still packs a punch. Symptoms can include localized pain, muscle cramps, and discomfort—making them a spider you don’t want to ignore. While fatalities are extremely rare, bites should still be taken seriously.

What About Black Widows?

Yes, black widows are found in Florida, including in Tampa, Sarasota, Naples, and Bonita Springs. However, they’re less common than brown widows in pool cages. The glossy black body and red hourglass marking make black widows easy to identify. Their venom is more potent than a brown widow’s, but encounters are less frequent for Florida homeowners.

Common Mistaken Identity: Huntsman Spiders

Many people assume they’re seeing brown widows when in reality they’re spotting huntsman spiders. Huntsmans are large, fast-moving spiders that occasionally enter pool cages. While their size can be intimidating, they are not venomous to humans and actually help by controlling other insects.

Fun Spider Facts for Florida Homeowners

🐾 Egg Sac Clues – Brown widow egg sacs look like little spiky balls of cotton, making them one of the easiest ways to identify their presence.

🌎 Global Travelers – Brown widows are believed to have originated in Africa but are now found worldwide—including right here in Southwest Florida.

🌙 Nighttime Hunters – Brown widows are most active at night, which is why many homeowners don’t notice them until morning.

🕷️ Helpful Huntsman – Despite their size, huntsman spiders are considered beneficial because they feed on roaches, moths, and other pests.

⚡ Widow Webs – Unlike orb weavers, both black and brown widows spin messy, tangled webs that often appear under chairs, in corners, or along pool cage frames.

How to Stay Safe in Your Pool Cage

• Learn to identify brown widow egg sacs—they’re often the first sign of an infestation.
• Keep patio furniture, railings, and corners of your pool cage free from webs and egg sacs.
• Be cautious when moving items stored outside, as spiders like to hide in dark, undisturbed areas.
• If you’re unsure about a spider, avoid contact and call a professional for removal.

Brown Widow: The Most Common Pool Cage Spider to Watch For

So, what’s the verdict? Out of the venomous spiders found in Southwest Florida pool cages, the brown widow takes the top spot. While not as dangerous as the black widow, their presence is far more common and should be taken seriously.

Professional Spider Control in Southwest Florida

If you’re noticing spiders in your pool cage in Tampa, Sarasota, Naples, or Bonita Springs, it’s time to take action. At Spider Free Pool Cage, we specialize in protecting your outdoor spaces from dangerous and nuisance spiders. Our proven treatments keep your pool enclosure safe, so you can enjoy your backyard without worry.

Spider Free Pool Cage
🌐 www.spiderfreepoolcage.com
📞 239-351-1456
📧 Sales@SpiderFreePoolCage.com