Life occurs wherever it finds the necessary conditions for survival. This is why despite the human settlement in large cities, there is fauna that can infiltrate homes. Normally this does not represent a danger; however, it is necessary to be alert for any fortuitous situation, as is the case of insects like spiders. It is essential to be well informed about venomous species, especially when it comes to creatures like the brown recluse spider that can represent an important threat. Let’s meet this spider, how to identify it and what to do if you encounter one.
Brown recluse spiders are also known as ‘fiddler spiders,’ ‘corner spiders,’ ‘Chilean recluse,’ or ‘violin spiders’ because of the violin-shaped marking on their cephalothorax (head and body). It belongs to the loxosceles family, which is a family of over 140 species around the world.
Where does it live?
It mainly inhabits countries in South and Central America. Countries such as Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Mexico have large varieties of brown recluse spider species. However, it can also be found in some large areas in the United States like the Midwest, west to Colorado, New Mexico, and Georgia.
They usually hide in damp places that have remained unchanged for a long time, such as cracks and corners, sheds, attics, cellars, and other dark places, where there is not much movement. However, they also live outdoors, where they may remain among stacked wood or behind objects that have not been moved for a long time.
According to experts from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), these spiders move to urban areas where they find ideal conditions for subsistence. This is because the forgotten corners of cities provide them with the ideal temperature, as well as the necessary humidity and access to food left by humans.
How to identify a brown recluse spider?
If you have the slightest suspicion you might have one of these spiders at your home, the first thing you should consider is what the brown recluse spider looks like exactly. Let’s remember that the effect of its venom is potentially deadly. They can be identified by their violin-shaped marking that extends from the body toward the head. Although, not all species have this mark in a very well-defined shape. It measures between 8 and 30 millimeters, meaning that its size may vary, but it is not particularly large compared to other spiders such as tarantulas.
It is brown or gray, although this will depend on its habitat and the adaptation of the species. Like all arachnids, the brown recluse spider has eight legs, which, in accordance with its size, these are rather thick. Unlike other spiders (and a characteristic that allows its identification) it has only three pairs of eyes, giving a total of six. Normally, spiders have four pairs, that is, eight eyes.
What to do to avoid them?
The best way to prevent arachnids from settling in your home is definitely cleanliness. Try to keep all the corners of the house well debrided to avoid dusty, damp, and dark formations that serve as a home for brown recluse spiders. Likewise, during the rainy season, it will be crucial to check shoes and clothes that have been stored for a long time before using them.
It should be noted that the brown recluse spider is a nocturnal animal and is not aggressive, only attacking when it feels threatened. Most unfortunate encounters happen accidentally when they come into contact with the skin. Therefore, avoid direct contact with damp, dark corners where there has been no recent movement.
What to do in case of a bite?
In case of a bite, there is no other option but to go to the doctor immediately. Although during the transfer the best thing to do is to keep the wound well washed to avoid any kind of infection. This implies not touching or scratching under any circumstances. You should only touch yourself to apply ice packs directly to the area; this will help to slow down the venom reaction.
The doctor will decide what to do in case of a brown recluse spider bite, as well as the appropriate prescription of medications ranging from antihistamines, serums, or anti-inflammatory drugs, if applicable.
Text courtesy of Ecoosfera
