How to Identify Brown Recluse Spiders

Brown recluse spiders prefer dark, secluded areas. They are favorite food of hermit crabs, as they are the "hermit" of the spider world. Brown recluse spiders are found indoors and can live all year long hidden in barns, sheds, warehouses, homes and greenhouses.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Count the legs. Brown recluse spiders have eight brown legs that are long (about the width of a quarter), thin and covered with fine hairs but not spikes.

2. Size up the spider. Brown recluse spiders range from 3/8-inch to 5/8-inch in length.

3. Check the spider's color. Brown recluse spiders are light brown with dark brown markings and legs.

4. Look for special markings. Brown recluse spiders have a dark inverted violin shaped marking from their head into their bodies.

5. Check for hairs. Brown recluse spiders have bellies that are covered with many fine hairs that look like velvet.

Tips & Warnings

• Brown recluses tend to hide during the day and hunt for insects including crickets, other spiders, cockroaches and other insects.
• Females can lay many eggs at once and the eggs hatch in a few weeks.
• Brown recluse spiders often avoid humans, which is why they are known as recluses.
• Infestation happens quickly since females lay many eggs at once.
• The spiders will bite humans or animals if they feel threatened.
• Bites are especially harmful to children, the elderly and those in poor physical health.
• Bites create painful open, ulcerous sores and become infected if not treated.
• Deep wounds will take a long time to heal (6 to 8 weeks) and may leave scarring.

[peterpan56]

on 5/10/2008 I have been bitten several time. It is no fun. Thanks for letting everyone know what they look like.
http://health-pictures.com/Brown-recluse-spider-bite.htm