Yes, it is a female BW spider. They are always round, black, and glossy. The distinctive red markings can be variable....sometimes red hourglass shaped spot on the underside of abdomen, sometimes not. Sometimes, they will have red spots on top.

The shape and color, however, is always the same.

Keep the area cleaned out routinely. I sprinkle horticultural grade diatomaceous earth liberally in nooks and crannies where these spiders frequent.

Thanks. That's what I thought too. I like the idea of a cleaner area there. Now to find a source of diatomaceous earth.

Christopher, any garden supply retail outlet will have it, especially if any organic products are sold. An agricultural co-op or Feed&Seed store, too. DE is often used in the feed of livestock and as a dust for poultry.

Just be certain that you read the label.....you must not get the DE that is used for filtering swimming pools. Food or Horticultural grades only.