Brown recluse spiders are among the most feared and most dangerous pests you can find in your home. Often hidden in dark, warm and dry environments, catching sight of one can be both startling and anxiety-inducing! How do you identify these creepy creatures, can you prevent them from getting cozy inside your home, and what should you do if you come across one?
Identifying the Brown Recluse
Brown recluse spiders are most often identified by the dark brown violin shaped lines on their backs. Their name says it all — they are very reclusive, mainly only seen when they are out stalking prey. Other common nicknames are fiddleback or violin spider. They are tan to dark brown in color, and their color is uniform all over (instead of banded, striped or spotted) their bodies with no visible hairiness. Brown recluse spiders also have smooth legs without bulging or swollen leg joints, and they stand and move like hunters. Unlike the majority of spiders, the brown recluse has six eyes instead of eight, and they’re arranged in a semicircle in three sets of two. Although many spider species share some of these characteristics, only the brown recluse spider has them all. As far as webs go, the brown recluse spider will spin a tent web to protect themselves and their young — not to catch prey — and they’re usually pretty dusty. Most people mistake their webs for cobwebs, and if you run your hand through one, you risk getting bitten!
Prevention
You can help prevent brown recluse spiders from entering your home in a variety of ways. Check your home for cracks or holes in the foundation, doors or windows. Store firewood and boxes away from your home instead of near entryways or in the garage. Brown recluse spiders normally aren’t aggressive, and will usually only bite people when they are in hiding. Shaking out clothing that hasn’t been worn in a while, such as your hunting clothes, is a good idea. Pick up shoes, clothes and gloves and properly store them when they aren’t in use. Don’t leave shoes outside or in the garage if they’re dirty; bring them in and clean them immediately. Always shake your shoes before placing them on your bare feet just in case.
Getting Rid of Spiders
If you see a brown recluse spider in your home or garage, the safest thing you can do is call a reputable pest control company to handle the problem. Brown recluse spider bites can range from mild to severe, sometimes resulting in necrotic skin lesions. In rare cases, especially when a child or elderly person is bitten, the venom can cause major complications. The professionals at Clark Exterminating will safely eliminate the spiders from your living space, and ensure that your family is safe again.
Remember at Clark Exterminating “The Bug Stops Here!”
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