Brown recluse spiders are a non-native species introduced into the United States, primarily through the transport of furniture or boxes from areas where they are native. While brown recluse spiders are not native to Washington State, they have been spotted occasionally in the state, usually in out-of-the-way places like basements, attics, or neglected areas of homes. It is important to note that brown recluse spiders do not live in the Pacific Northwest and there are no known populations of them in the region.
Appearance and Identification
Brown recluse spiders are typically identified by their violin-patterned back, which gives them their nickname "fiddleback spider." They have six eyes arranged in pairs and eight eyes total, with the front two eyes forming a horizontal line at the front of their head, similar to the shape of a violin. These spiders are most easily recognized by their distinctive hourglass marking on the bottom of their cephalothorax, which is often referred to as the "hourglass mark" or "redness spot." These spiders are mostly brown in color and can grow to be about one to two inches long.
Habitat and Distribution
Brown recluse spiders prefer warm, dry, and sheltered environments, which are not ideal for the cool, damp conditions of the Pacific Northwest. While brown recluse spiders have been spotted in various regions of the United States, including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Missouri, they are most commonly found in the central and eastern parts of the country. The last confirmed case of a brown recluse spider in Washington State was in 2004, suggesting that they are not native to the region.
Bites and Effects
While brown recluse spiders are not aggressive and usually only bite when trapped or cornered, their bite can cause a severe and painful disease known as Brown Recluse Spider Envenomation. The venom of brown recluse spiders contains cytotoxins that can cause tissue destruction and may lead to skin gangrene, organ failure, or even death in rare cases. The bite of a brown recluse spider can result in large and painful open wounds that require immediate medical attention. In severe cases, skin grafts may be necessary to repair the damage caused by the bite.
Preventive Measures
To prevent brown recluse spiders from becoming established in a home, it is important to take the following measures:
- Trim bushes and other plants away from the home to prevent them from coming into contact with the home's structural components.
- Use outdoor lighting that does not attract flying insects, as flying insects may introduce brown cliffies to new locations.
- Avoid storing large items, such as lumber or firewood against the home's exterior, as they can provide cover for brown recluse spiders.
- Regularly inspect the home for brown recluse spiders and their webs to prevent bites.
##Brown recluse spiders are non-native species that do not live in the Pacific Northwest. While they have been spotted occasionally in Washington State, the risk of being bitten by a brown recluse spider is very low. However, anyone who suspects they have been bitten by a brown recluse spider should seek immediate medical attention due to the potential danger of their bite. If you have brown recluse spider worries, consulting with a professional pest control provider can help ensure that your home remains safe and free of these potentially risky arachnids.
