S & W Pest Management Inc : Insect Guide

Pest Guide » Spiders » Brown Recluse Spiders:

Brown Recluse Spiders
Loxosceles reclusa
Color: Brown, with dark brown violin marking on back
Legs: Eight
Shape: Round
Size: 5/8"
Antennae: No
Flight: No

The brown recluse spider is often called the "violin" spider or "fiddleback" spider because of the distinctive fiddle-shaped marking on top of its back. Brown recluse spiders are nocturnal and eat other bugs like cockroaches and crickets. Male brown recluse spiders wander farther than females and will crawl into shoes or other clothing.

Brown recluse spiders often live outdoors in debris and wood piles. They can be found indoors in storage areas and dark recesses.

Like the black widow spider, the brown recluse spider bites in defense and does not seek out to bite people. The brown recluse spider bite is painful and can produce an open, ulcerating sore.

Prevention:

Wear heavy gloves when moving stored cardboard boxes, firewood, lumber, and rocks.
Spiders often hide in shoes, so check shoes and shake them out before wearing.
When spider webs are visible, use caution before putting your hands or feet in that area.
Install tight-fitting screens on doors and windows to prevent entry of black widow spiders.
Seal or caulk cracks and crevices where spiders can enter the house.
Install yellow or sodium vapor light bulbs outdoors since these attract fewer insects for spiders to feed upon.

If you would like to make an appointment with S & W Pest Management, please fill out the online appointment form or call 1-877-989-BUGS.