Arachnid · Other spider
Western black widow care guide
Latrodectus hesperus
The western black widow is a expert-level other spider from W North America including S BC. Adults reach Body 1–1.5 cm and live 2–3 years in captivity. Medically significant neurotoxic venom; keep in a locked enclosure and service with long tools.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 20–26°C
- Humidity 40–60%
How much does a western black widow cost in Canada?
Western black widow quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- Body 1–1.5 cm
- Lifespan
- 2–3 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- W North America including S BC
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 7 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 20–26°C
- Humidity
- 40–60%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies
- Bioactive style
- Temperate forest
Western black widow enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a temperate forest bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix3 cm
Keep a moisture gradient: drier on top and at the warm end, slightly moist underneath and at the cool end.
Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 40–60%. UVB: Not needed.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a western black widow eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies. Adults: 1–2 small crickets every 7–10 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Never handle; use long tongs and a catch container, and keep the enclosure locked.
Health watch: Dehydration is the main risk; mist the web lightly every few days.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check temperatures and refresh water.
Weekly
- Lightly moisten the cool end and lower soil.
- Spot-clean waste.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter; check hides and branches are stable.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a western black widow bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 30 cm).
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 3 cm
Coco Husk Chips - Dried Loose Pack
Optional top layer (coco husk chips)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Cork Bark Flats
A hide in each temperature zone
Cork Branches
Many colubrids climb more than people expect
Western black widow FAQ
Is the western black widow good for beginners?
No – the western black widow is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Never handle; use long tongs and a catch container, and keep the enclosure locked.
What size enclosure does a western black widow need?
At least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (about 12 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 7 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a western black widow cost in Canada?
Typically $15–40 CAD to buy, about $120–220 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $20–40 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a western black widow need?
Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 40–60%.
What does a western black widow eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, flies. Adults: 1–2 small crickets every 7–10 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.