Household Wildlife in Suburban Missoula.

Black Widow (Latrodectus variolus )

Can be found throughout the United States. Preys on other insects by catching and wrapping them in their webs, "then bites and envenoms its prey. The venom takes about ten minutes to take effect; in the meantime, the prey is held tightly by the spider. When movements of the prey cease, digestive enzymes are released into the wound. The black widow spider then carries its prey back to its retreat before feeding."

Extremely potent venom.

Recently sighted on my windowsill, 5:00 am.



Unannounced Guests (Randomus Unwelcomus)

Can be found throughout the world. Typically arrives at one's door with neither invitation nor warning, occasionally after years of non-communication. Often searching for the former residents of one's house. More often than not, arrives with an open liquor bottle and lit cigarette in hand, drunk, and wanting to 'catch-up.'

Dangerously verbose.

Recently sighted at my door, 3:12 am.



Plumber's Snake (Toiletus Augerus)

This flexible auger (used to remove clogs in plumbing that cannot be loosened with a plunger) inhabits domiciles with frequent plumbing problems. Typically works like a corkscrew to break up clogs in plumbing.

Occasionally gets itself turned around and stuck in the siphon of the toilet bowl.

Recently sighted corkscrewed (and very, very stuck) in my toilet bowl, 11:15 pm last night.