Latrodectus hesperus odor

[David_F]

Has anyone else noticed an odor to their L. hesperus, or other widow, enclosures? I've got a couple mature females that have developed an odor. It's not like typical substrate odor or decaying prey remains. I didn't notice it before they matured. Anyone have any ideas what it would be? Pheromone? :?

I remember playing with spiders when I was younger and they seemed to have had a distinct smell but forgot about it until I noticed this odor. Kinda strange.

 

[cricket54]

Its not unusual. L. mactans seem to have the same odor, so I think its their excrement you smell. We have had both species as pets beforeand it smells in the jars the same way. Its like bat guano has a distint smell. Every once in a while, very infrequently, I take the spider out, and all the sticks and leave,s and clean the jar or container out with real hot water. The spider stays in her web, and we can just lift the sticks out and place it in another container. I don't disturb the webbing or sticks she is on, and just stick them back in. Doesn't seem to disturb the girls too much.
Sharon

 

[David_F]

Its not unusual. L. mactans seem to have the same odor, so I think its their excrement you smell.

Hmm...didn't think of that. Guess that might be it.

Thanks.

 

[cacoseraph]

Hmm...didn't think of that. Guess that might be it.

Thanks.

kind of a "chemically" maybe ammonia like odor?

it's the poop man

 

[David_F]

kind of a "chemically" maybe ammonia like odor?

it's the poop man

Hmmm...no, not really like ammonia at all. Almost a sweet smell. Even so, you and Sharon are probably right. It's strange though. Like I said, on the immature L. hesperus and L. mactans that I have I don't smell it. Even the ones that have been in smaller enclosures (3.5" tall x 1.5" dia vials) for more time than the mature females (one is in a 2.5 gal aquarium...the other is in a 32 oz. jar) there's no odor. Probably the poop and, even if it's not, I know it's nothing to worry about. Just strange.