Brown Recluse Spiders

What do brown recluse spiders look like?

Brown recluse spiders are usually light to medium brown and measure about ¼ to ¾ of an inch in diameter; that’s roughly the size of a quarter. They have a distinctive dark brown fiddle-shaped marking on their backs, which is why they’re often called fiddle-back spiders. Fine hairs cover their bodies, giving them a silky sheen. Like all spiders, brown recluses have eight legs and two mandibles, but unlike most spiders, they have six eyes arranged in pairs rather than eight. Their chelicerae (mouthparts) are also quite prominent.

How long do brown recluse spiders live?

In ideal conditions, brown recluses can live up to seven years. However, their lifespan is usually closer to three years in most homes.

What do brown recluse spiders eat?

Brown recluses primarily eat insects and other spiders.  

How can I tell a brown recluse from other spiders?

Here are some key features to help identify a brown recluse from other spiders with similar coloring:

• Marking: The dark fiddle-shaped mark on the back is a strong indicator.
• Hairs: Brown recluses have fine hairs; coarse hairs likely mean it’s a wolf spider.
• Legs: Spines on the legs usually indicate a hobo spider.
• Size: Brown recluses are generally smaller than both hobo and wolf spiders.

If you need help identifying a spider in your San Diego home or business, don’t hesitate to contact the Harbor Pest Control team.

Where do brown recluse spiders usually live?

Outside, brown recluses can be found in holes, wood piles, logs, and other sheltered areas like junk piles or under objects. 

Indoors, they prefer secluded, cluttered spaces such as storage rooms and attics, especially near the floor. Their webs are thin, tangled, and irregular.

Do brown recluse spiders infest furniture and clothing?

Yes, brown recluse spiders hide inside stored furniture, particularly in undisturbed rooms. They can also be found in storage boxes. While they don’t infest clothing, they hide in clothes, climb into pockets or tight spaces, and can get inside footwear. It’s essential to always shake out clothing and shoes before wearing, especially if you suspect a brown recluse presence.

Are brown recluse spider bites dangerous?

They can be. Brown recluse venom can damage tissue and cause more serious issues; however, not all bites lead to complications.

What symptoms indicate a brown recluse spider bite?

You might notice stinging, redness, swelling, or itching, much like a typical insect bite, at first. In some cases, a blister or open sore may form at the bite center.

More serious symptoms can also occur, including:

• Chills
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Rash
• Muscle or joint pain
• Excessive sweating

No matter how mild the symptoms seem, it’s always a good idea to seek medical attention if you think you’ve been bitten.

What’s the best way to get rid of brown recluse spiders?

If you’ve found a brown recluse spider (or spiders) in your home, skip the DIY and contact Harbor Pest Control for assistance. Since 1948, our locally owned and family-operated pest control company has been helping property owners eliminate and prevent spiders and other nuisance and potentially harmful or damaging pests. 

How can I prevent brown recluse spiders from entering my home?

To prevent brown recluse spider infestations, check all items before bringing them indoors, especially if they’ve been in storage. 

We also recommend installing door sweeps and sealing gaps to block potential entry points.

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