Brown Recluse Spider
Loxosceles reclusa
Brown recluse spiders are identified by the distinctive dark violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (head region), with the neck of the violin pointing toward the abdomen. They're uniformly tan ...
Quick Facts
100%
Satisfaction Guarantee
4.9/5
Customer Rating
24hr
Response Time
How to Identify Brown Recluse Spider
Brown recluse spiders are identified by the distinctive dark violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (head region), with the neck of the violin pointing toward the abdomen. They're uniformly tan to dark brown with no stripes on their legs.
Brown recluse spiders are identified by the distinctive dark violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (head region), with the neck of the violin pointing toward the abdomen. They're uniformly tan to dark brown with no stripes on their legs. Crucially, they have only 6 eyes arranged in 3 pairs (most spiders have 8). Body size is about the size of a quarter with legs extended.
Brown Recluse Spider Behavior & Habits
Understanding how brown recluse spider behave helps prevent infestations
True to their name, brown recluses are reclusive and shy. They hide in dark, undisturbed areas and only bite when trapped against skin—often when putting on stored clothing or shoes. They're nocturnal hunters that don't use webs to catch prey. They can survive months without food or water.
Brown Recluse Spider Risks & Dangers
What brown recluse spider can do to your health and property
Health Risks
Brown recluse venom is necrotic, meaning it can destroy tissue around the bite site. While most bites heal without serious complications, some develop into necrotic lesions that require medical treatment. Severe reactions can cause systemic symptoms. Bites often aren't felt initially, making identification difficult.
Property Damage
No property damage. The concern is entirely health-related.
Signs of Brown Recluse Spider Infestation
Look for these indicators in your home
Brown Recluse Spider in Boise & the Treasure Valley
While brown recluse spiders are not established in Idaho, they occasionally arrive in shipments, moving boxes, and transported furniture from the Midwest and South where they're native. Any suspected brown recluse sighting in Boise should be reported for identification—most turn out to be similar-looking harmless spiders. However, the risk warrants professional inspection.
How We Eliminate Brown Recluse Spider
Professional treatment for complete elimination
Brown recluse control requires a thorough approach. We apply residual treatments to cracks, crevices, and hiding spots. Sticky traps help monitor populations and catch wandering spiders. We recommend habitat modifications to reduce harborage. Complete elimination can take several months due to their ability to survive in low-traffic areas.
How to Prevent Brown Recluse Spider
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation
Brown Recluse Spider Questions Answered
Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment
Are brown recluse spiders common in Idaho?
No. Brown recluses are not established in Idaho—their native range is the Midwest and South. However, they occasionally arrive in boxes, furniture, or shipments from those regions. Most "brown recluse" sightings in Boise are actually hobo spiders or other harmless look-alikes.
How can I tell if it's really a brown recluse?
Look for: 1) The violin-shaped marking on the back (not abdomen), 2) Uniform tan-brown color with no stripes on legs, 3) Only 6 eyes in 3 pairs (requires close inspection). If in doubt, capture it safely and have a professional identify it.
What should I do if I'm bitten?
Clean the bite area, apply ice, and seek medical attention—especially if the bite area becomes red, swollen, or develops a blister. If possible, capture the spider for identification. Most bites heal without complications, but medical monitoring is recommended.
Similar Pests
Learn about other pests in this category