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Loxosceles
reclusa
Characteristics –
Size: May grow to have a body about 5/8-inch in length
and a leg span of about one and a half inches in diameter.
Color: Usually light brown but may be darker in some
specimens.
The key identifying characteristics are the six eyes arranged in
three pairs at the front of the head area and the fiddle-shaped
marking on the back. The brown recluse spider is often called the
"violin" spider or "fiddle back" spider because
of the distinctive fiddle-shaped marking on top of its cephalothorax
(head end to which the legs are attached).
Behavior –
Like most spiders, the brown recluse spider does not seek to bite
people. The bite is usually accidental. The spider crawls into a
shoe, into clothing or into a bed and a person then puts on the
clothing or lies on the spider in bed. The spider, being trapped,
has only one defense - and that is to bite. Unfortunately, the bite
of this spider produces a nasty result in people, such as open,
ulcerating sores. Left untreated, such bites often become infected
and significant tissue necrosis can occur. It is always best to seek
medical attention, preferably from a dermatologist, if you think you
may have a spider bite. This is especially true in areas where brown
recluse spiders are common.
Habitat – Any corner inside or outside is
suitable for brown recluse spiders to construct their webs. These
spiders are more common in garages, crawl spaces, and basements, as
these areas are less disturbed and tend to harbor more
insects.
Tips for Control – If a home has experienced
brown recluse spiders, the occupants can reduce the chances of bites
by following the recommendations below:
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Clothing can be stored in sealed plastic bags inside drawers
or inside plastic storage compartments hanging in closets.
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Shoes should be stored inside plastic shoeboxes.
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Clothes that have been left on the floor, in a clothing
basket, or are otherwise exposed should always be shaken well
and inspected before being put on.
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Avoid keeping clothing on floors.
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Beds should be moved out so they do not touch walls or
curtains.
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Bed skirts around the box springs should be removed from beds,
and bedspreads that come near or touch the floor should not be
used. These items allow spiders easy access to climb onto the
bed.
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Persons living in infested homes should get into the habit of
inspecting bedding prior to climbing in.
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