Brown Recluse Spider
Scientific Name: Loxosceles reclusa
Order & Family: Araneae: Sicariidae
Size: Body length is typically 6-20 mm (1/4 to 3/4 inch), with a leg span of 1-3 cm.
Natural Habitat
Found in dark, undisturbed areas such as attics, basements, closets, woodpiles, and behind furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous insectivores that hunt small soft-bodied insects like silverfish, flies, and crickets.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal hunters that do not use webs to catch prey. Known for being shy and reclusive, avoiding human interaction.
Risks & Benefits
Possesses necrotic venom causing potential skin lesions (loxoscelism); benefits the ecosystem by controlling indoor pests.
Identified on: 6/4/2026