Biting bugs be gone

Brown recluse spiders are one of the most infamous spiders in the U.S. Known for their venomous bites and reclusive nature, these arachnids aren't aggressive, but their presence in your home can be alarming.

In this guide, we'll learn how to identify this spider, understand its behaviors, recognize the signs of an infestation, and learn why professional pest control with Greenix is the best solution. Let's dive in!

Brown recluse spiders are often misidentified, but a few key characteristics set them apart:

• Color: Light to dark brown with a slightly darker violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (head and thorax area).

• Size: Typically between 1/4 to 1/2 inch in body length, with legs extending their total size to about an inch.

• Eyes: Unlike most spiders, which have eight eyes, brown recluse spiders have six eyes arranged in three pairs.

• Legs: Long, thin, and covered in fine hairs.

• Webbing: They create irregular, messy webs in undisturbed areas. They don't use their webs for hunting.

Brown recluse spiders are nocturnal hunters that feed primarily on:

• Small insects: Cockroaches, crickets, and other household pests.

• Dead insects: They scavenge dead bugs, making them helpful in controlling insect populations.

• Other spiders: They occasionally feed on smaller spiders.

Since they do not use webs to catch their prey, they actively hunt at night, using their venom to subdue victims.

While brown recluse spiders are not aggressive, their bites can be medically significant. Most bites occur when they are accidentally pressed against human skin, such as in shoes, clothing, or bedding. Potential dangers include:

• Necrotic skin reactions: Some bites result in tissue damage, forming open sores that take weeks to heal.

• Pain and swelling: Mild to severe pain, accompanied by redness and swelling, may develop.

• Systemic symptoms: In rare cases, fever, chills, nausea, and muscle pain can occur.

Since brown recluse spiders are shy and nocturnal, detecting an infestation requires careful observation. Look for:

• Spider sightings: Seeing multiple brown recluse spiders, especially in dark, undisturbed areas like basements, attics, or closets.

• Webbing: Although they don't use webs for hunting, they spin irregular, messy webs in corners or hidden spaces.

• Molted skins: As they grow, they shed their exoskeletons, leaving behind dry, papery remains.

Many homeowners attempt DIY methods to eliminate brown recluse spiders, but these approaches often don't work. Here's why:

• Elusive behavior: Brown recluses hide in hard-to-reach areas, making it difficult to eradicate them completely.

• Ineffective sprays: Most over-the-counter pesticides don't work well on brown recluses.

• Risk of bites: Disturbing their hiding spots can increase the chances of an accidental bite.

• Hidden egg sacs: Female brown recluse spiders lay eggs in hidden locations, leading to recurring infestations if not properly addressed.

The professional Pest Nerds at Greenix have the experience and tools needed to effectively eliminate brown recluse spiders while ensuring your home remains safe.