Brown Recluse, Violin Spider, Fiddleback Spider
Loxosceles reclusa
Sicariidae (Six-eyed Sicariid Spiders), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A medium-sized spider with a distinctive flat cephalothorax and an oval-shaped abdomen. The body is finely covered in short, velvety hairs, giving it a matte appearance without spines on the legs.
Size Estimate
Body length is typically 6-20 mm (1/4 to 3/4 inch). Leg span is roughly the size of a U.S. quarter to a half-dollar (approx. 25-40 mm). This specimen appears to be an adult.
Coloration & Markings
Generally light to medium brown. Most characteristic is the dark brown 'violin' or 'fiddle' shape on the dorsal side of the cephalothorax, with the neck of the violin pointing toward the abdomen.
Web Type
Builds irregular, loose, 'cobweb-like' retreat webs in undisturbed areas. These are not used for catching prey but as a home base; they hunt actively at night.
Eye Arrangement
Unique arrangement of six eyes in three pairs (dyads) forming a semi-circle: one median pair and two lateral pairs. Most spiders have eight eyes.
Leg Characteristics
The legs are long, slender, and monochromatic, matching the body color. They lack thick spines or banding. They are held in a somewhat sprawled, flattened posture.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Contains a potent cytotoxic (tissue-destroying) protein called sphingomyelinase D. Most bites result in minor redness, but some can cause necrotic skin lesions.
Medical Significance
Medically significant. While rarely fatal, bites can cause 'loxoscelism,' characterized by a necrotic ulcer. Treatment includes wound care; seek medical attention if a lesion develops.
Safety Recommendations
Shake out clothing/shoes left on floors; clear clutter in storage areas; use glue traps for monitoring; do not handle with bare hands. Use gloves when moving woodpiles.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Primarily the Central and Midwestern United States. They prefer dark, dry, undisturbed microhabitats like woodpiles, basements, closets, and 'reclusive' corners of homes.
Behavior & Temperament
Shy and non-aggressive. They are nocturnal hunters that prefer to flee rather than bite. Bites usually occur when the spider is accidentally pressed against skin in bedding or clothing.
Diet & Prey
Generalist predator of small insects and other spiders. They hunt by scouting at night and using a combination of venom and physical strength to overcome prey.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round indoors, but peak activity and sightings occur during the warmer months from March through October.
Description
The Brown Recluse is one of the most misunderstood spiders in North America. Known for its 'violin' marking and preference for quiet corners, it plays a role as an effective predator of household pests.
Key Features
Six eyes in three pairs; dark violin-shaped marking on the cephalothorax; uniformly colored legs without spines; shy, reclusive behavior.
Similar Species
Often confused with Wolf Spiders (Lycosidae) which have eight eyes and stripes, or Southern House Spiders (Kukulcania hibernalis) which have longer pedipalps.
Life Cycle
Females produce 1-5 egg sacs containing about 50 eggs each. Spiderlings reach maturity in about a year and can live for 1 to 2 years.
Ecological Importance
Acts as a natural pest control agent, consuming cockroaches, silverfish, and other insects that reside in indoor environments.
Conservation Status
Not evaluated by IUCN; common and stable within their native geographic range.
Interesting Facts
A Brown Recluse can survive for months without food or water. Despite their reputation, many people live in infested homes for years without ever being bitten.
Photography Tips
Focus on the 'head' region to capture the violin marking and eye arrangement. Use a macro lens or high-zoom if possible to remain at a safe distance.
Identified: 2026-07-16T14:06:32.703860