Learning Center

Brown Recluse Spiders

Learn More About Brown Recluse Spiders

Common to many southern and Midwestern states, the brown recluse thrives in the Texas climate. While it tends to keep to itself and avoid human contact, it will attack if it feels provoked. What’s worse, if bitten by a brown recluse spider, you’ll start to suffer from severe nausea, chills, fever, and pain within 24 hours. The brown recluse likes to hide in dark areas inside homes, under houses, in debris piles, and within cellars. It can be distinguished by its six eyes that sit in three pairs in a violin pattern along its back.

Pest Identification

Size

5/8″

Color

Yellowish-tan to light brown, with a dark brown violin design on its back

Body Structure

8 legs and round in shape. The brown recluse is most commonly recognized by its signature violin pattern on the back of its cephalothorax. The depiction of the instrument has its neck pointing toward the rear, with its base on the head of the spider. They are part of the Loxosceles genus harboring 6 eyes total, however, the eyes are too small to be seen without assisted vision.

Characteristics

The brown recluse lives for about 2 years. Its eggs are encased in a silken sac, and the female can lay up to 50 eggs at a time, 5 times a year. Eggs are produced between May and July, and hatchlings molt within the mother’s web up to 7 times before reaching adulthood.

Habitat & Behavior

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

Commonly Active

Most brown recluse bites occur during summer months.

Prevention & Treatment

To avoid brown recluse spiders, avoid keeping clothing on the floor. Store clothing and shoes inside plastic containers, and shake out all clothing that has been in a hamper before wearing or washing.

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