Spiders

Brown Recluse

Size: About 5/8-inches in length and a leg span of about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.

Color: Usually light brown but may be darker. The key to identifying this spider 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 referred to as a "violin" spider or a "fiddleback" spider because of the fiddle shaped marking on its top.

Health Risk: The bite of this spider can produce an open, ulcerating sore. Left untreated, such bites often become infected.

Behavior – The brown recluse spider does not look for people to bite. The bite is usually accidental by crawling into a shoe, bed or other article of clothing. The spider, has only one defense - biting.

Habitat – Any corner inside or outside is suitable for brown recluse spiders to construct their webs. These spiders are common in garages, and basements.

Control – Seek the help of a professional such as Select Pest Control.

Tips: Clothing can be stored in sealed plastic before hanging in closets for storage. Shoes should be kept sealed in a shoebox. Clothes that have been left on the floor or in a clothes basket should be shaken before worn. Beds should be moved out so they don't touch walls or drapes. 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.

Northern Kentucky

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