Brown Recluse Spider

Category: Spiders

Scientific Name: Loxosceles reclusa

 

Identification:

Color: various shades of brown with dark, violin-shaped marking on back

Size: ¼ to ½ inch long

Region: Found mainly in the South and Midwest (not found in Idaho)

Lifespan: 1-2 years

Important Considerations:

  • Both male and female brown recluse spiders bite. Although they do not instinctively bite humans, they will do so if they feel threatened.
  • Brown recluse spider bites result in stinging, severe pain, vomiting, nausea, and fever. If bitten, you should seek medical attention.
  • Each female spider can lay up to 5 eggs sacs that contain up to 50 eggs each. This can result in infestations spreading rapidly.

 

Where to Find Them on Your Property?

Brown recluse spiders are most often found outside. They like dark, damp places to live like wood piles, utility boxes, or under rocks. If they are found inside, they similarly find unused areas such as closets, attics, and crawl spaces to make their home. They can be found in paper stacks, inside boxes, in window molding crevices, or under furniture.