Brown Recluse Spider Identification & Prevention

Also known as the fiddleback or violin spider.

Description

This species of the brown recluse is the one most often encountered in the Indiana/Illinois/Kentucky tri-state area. This arachnid has developed a notorious reputation due to the necrotic venom contained in its bite, which may induce severe skin ulceration and scarring. It is important to note that not all brown recluse spider bites result in skin ulcerations and that the bites of other spiders, such as the hobo spider or yellow sac spider, may cause similar reactions. Recluses typically bite when trapped between another surface and flesh, as when putting on articles of clothing or when an individual sleeping rolls over on a spider.

Biology and Behavior

• Adult brown recluse spiders are usually about 1/4 to 1/2 an inch in body length with a total leg span of 1 1/4 to 2 inches.
• These spiders are tan to dark brown with a darker fiddle-shaped marking on top of the cephalothorax (body segments where legs are attached).
• Recluses have six eyes uniquely arranged in three groups of two (diads) in a semicircle.
• Recluses prefer to inhabit undisturbed areas, such as attics, crawl spaces, basements, closets, areas under furniture, and inside wall voids.
• You can often see male recluse spiders and juveniles. Females generally stay well hidden, making them more challenging to eliminate.