Brown recluses are small spiders. Adult recluses are typically only about ¼ to ½ an inch in length. Their small size makes it difficult to spot the dark brown violin-shaped markings on their backs. Usually, the easiest way to identify brown recluses is by their smooth, hairless appearance. If you see a hairy brown spider, it’s more likely to be a wolf spider.
Yes, brown recluse spiders build webs, but they are not like the intricate, symmetrical designs associated with other spiders. Instead, brown recluse webs are irregular, messy, and often hidden in undisturbed areas like corners, closets, attics, and basements. These webs are used for shelter rather than for trapping prey.
People often believe brown recluse spiders don’t build webs because they are primarily hunters. Unlike web-dwelling spiders, brown recluses actively seek out prey, such as small insects, rather than relying on webs to catch them. Their hunting behavior and preference for secluded spaces might lead to the misconception that they don’t spin webs at all.
Brown recluse spiders don’t typically live in their webs; they use them as shelters rather than homes. Instead, these spiders prefer to hide in dark, undisturbed areas where they can remain concealed during the day. Common places where brown recluse spiders live include closets, attics, basements, and crawl spaces. They have been found inside shoes, clothing, storage boxes, under furniture, and behind baseboards, to name a few hiding places.
Brown recluses are often found outdoors beneath rocks, logs, and woodpiles, as well as inside sheds, barns, and other structures with minimal human activity.
Brown recluse spiders can be dangerous, but their threat is often exaggerated. Their venom is potent and can cause significant medical issues, but bites are relatively rare, and severe reactions are even less common.
Brown recluse spider bites can be painful and sometimes lead to complications, but fatalities are extremely rare. Seeking prompt medical attention can help minimize the effects of a brown recluse bite.
Brown recluse spider bites vary in appearance depending on the individual’s reaction. Initially, the bite may feel like a pinprick, followed by mild pain, redness, or swelling within the first few hours. Over the next 24-48 hours, a blister may form, sometimes surrounded by a red, inflamed area or a bullseye-like pattern with a central blister, a red ring, and a lighter outer ring. In rare cases, the skin around the bite may turn bluish or purple as tissue damage (necrosis) develops, leading to an open sore that heals slowly. Severe symptoms, such as fever, chills, nausea, or infection, are uncommon but possible.
Like other house-infesting pests, spiders use the path of least resistance, meaning any opening outside the house will work as an entry point. Cracks in the foundation, gaps around utilities, damaged screens, and open garage doors are just a few of the ways these pests get inside. They may also hitchhike inside on items brought indoors, such as firewood, cardboard boxes, and grocery bags.
If you’re concerned that brown recluse spiders have taken up residence in your home, contact got bugs? Termite & Pest Solutions for assistance. Our locally owned and family-operated pest control company provides effective home pest control services in Buckhead, Cumming, and elsewhere in our Metro Atlanta service area that exterminates spiders and other pests!
There are many ways to deter brown recluse spiders from entering your home. We’ve touched on some of them already.
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