Brown Recluse Spider

Natural Habitat

Brown recluse spiders are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas, both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, they may inhabit closets, attics, basements, crawl spaces, stored boxes, clothing, shoes, and behind furniture. Outdoors, they can be found under rocks, logs, bark, or debris.

Diet & Feeding

Brown recluse spiders primarily feed on small, soft-bodied insects and other arthropods, such as crickets, cockroaches, and other spiders.

Behavior Patterns

Brown recluse spiders are nocturnal and active hunters, emerging at night to search for prey. They do not typically build large webs for catching prey, but rather construct irregular silk retreats in secluded areas. They are generally shy and reclusive, preferring to avoid human contact. Bites usually occur when a spider is accidentally pressed against skin, such as when putting on clothes or disturbing stored items.

Risks & Benefits

The primary risk associated with brown recluse spiders is their venomous bite. While often painless initially, the venom can cause a necrotizing lesion (a breakdown of tissue) that can take weeks to months to heal, and in severe cases, may require medical intervention. Scarring is common. Benefits are primarily ecological, as they help control populations of various insects, though their presence indoors can be a concern for humans.

Identified on: 8/24/2025