The brown recluse spider is well-known for its appearance and poisonous bite. Its name refers to its coloration and the fact that it’s quite shy. Brown Recluse spiders vary in size, but they’re usually around the size of a quarter. Their bodies are a uniform tan to dark brown, with no striping or banding. Occasionally, the spider’s abdomens, heads, and legs may be slightly different shades. Brown Recluses’ legs are long and thin.
It is the most common and widespread of the brown spiders, but it is found only in the south and the central United States.
Brown recluses often hide in dark, secluded places, like under porches or deep in closets. The brown recluse thrives in man-made areas and may be found under trash cans, tires, etc.
It is primarily nocturnal and lays its eggs from May to July. They are mostly only active from March through October, so trying to control them from October through March is generally not necessary or useful.