To identify venomous spiders: - Black widow spiders are shiny black with a distinctive red hourglass on their underside. They prefer dark, undisturbed places like garages, sheds, and woodpiles. - Brown recluse spiders are light to dark brown and have a violin-shaped marking on their back. They prefer warm, dry, and undisturbed areas such as attics, closets, or behind furniture. - Other signs: Venomous spiders are often reclusive and prefer areas with little human activity, unlike house spiders which are frequently seen in high-traffic areas.