What do brown recluse spiders look like?
Brown recluse spiders (Loxosceles reclusa) are tan to dark brown spiders that range in size from ¼ to ½ inches in length. They typically have a darker fiddle (or violin) shaped marking on their backs with the neck of the “instrument” pointing towards the rear. Young brown recluses are smaller and paler. They also have the notorious marking but it’s not always obvious.
When are Brown Recluse Spiders most active?
Are brown recluse spiders dangerous?
Although brown recluse spiders are not aggressive, they may bite if trapped against bare skin. While the initial brown recluse spider bite is usually painless, the venom injected can cause localized pain, redness, and swelling. More severe reactions can lead to necrosis or dead tissue, deep scar tissue, and slow healing.
How can I tell if I have a brown recluse spider problem?
Since brown recluse spiders are nocturnal hunters, you may not actually see them around your home. Female brown recluses stick close to their irregular-looking webs and even when hunting for prey, don’t venture far. Males, on the other hand, have a tendency to travel farther and those are the ones you could find in your shoes, bed, or in clothing left in a pile on the floor. A brown recluse spider sighting during the day could mean hunger or overcrowding.
What attracts brown recluse spiders?
Brown recluse spiders are attracted to properties that provide secure shelter and plenty of food. Outside, woodpiles, rocks, and other debris make ideal hiding places while indoors, closets, attics, garages, and any room with clutter will work. Of course, they need a way in and any hole, gap, or opening on the exterior could make a suitable entry point.
As for food sources, the more bugs (ex. flies, moths, cockroaches, and other soft-bodied insects) you have in and around your home, the more attractive it is to these spiders.
How do I get rid of brown recluse spiders?
For effective pest control services that resolve infestations of brown recluse spiders, contact a licensed pest control company. At Getem Services, we’ve been exterminating spiders since 1922 and have the tools, knowledge, and experience to help you eliminate pests from your home or business.
How can I prevent an brown recluse spider infestation?
The key to preventing brown recluse spider infestations is to make it impossible for them to get inside, remove food sources, and eliminate hiding spots. To that end, we suggest trying the following tips:
- Seal or caulk openings on the exterior
- Replace or repair torn window screens
- Install door sweeps & weather stripping
- De-clutter storage areas including attics, closets, and garages
- Pick up the yard
- Trim back overgrowth and bushes
To avoid personal encounters with brown recluses, we also recommend keeping the floor free of clothes, towels, and blankets; checking sheets and bedding before settling in at night; and inspecting shoes before putting them on.
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