Bug Identifier
Brown Recluse Spider (Suspected Bite)
Community identification

Brown Recluse Spider (Suspected Bite)

Loxosceles reclusa

Order & Family
Order: Araneae, Family: Sicariidae
Size
6 to 20 millimeters in body length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in dark, undisturbed areas such as woodpiles, basements, attics, closets, and behind furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Insects, primarily caught using web traps or by active hunting at night.

Behavior Patterns

Solitary and nocturnal; they generally do not bite unless trapped against the skin, such as when putting on clothing or rolling over in bed.

Risks & Benefits

Bites can cause significant tissue necrosis (dermonecrotic lesions) and systemic reactions in rare cases, requiring medical attention. They help control pest insect populations.