Brown recluse spiders are among the most common and most feared household pests in Missouri. While their bites are rare, they can cause serious medical issues, making identification and prevention essential steps in protecting your home and family.
Key Identification Features
- Color: Light to medium brown, often with a violin-shaped mark on the back.
- Size: Typically ¼ to ¾ of an inch in body length, with long, thin legs.
- Eyes: Six eyes arranged in pairs (three sets) instead of the usual eight.
- Legs & Body: Smooth and uniform in color, lacking stripes or bands.
Habits and Hiding Places
Brown recluse spiders prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as basements, attics, closets, and behind furniture. Outdoors, they hide under rocks, wood piles, and stored materials. They’re nocturnal hunters, feeding mostly on insects.
Prevention Tips
Keeping brown recluse spiders out of your Missouri home takes a bit of effort, but consistent prevention goes a long way:
- Seal entry points: Fix gaps around windows, doors, and vents with caulk or weatherstripping.
- Reduce clutter: Keep basements, garages, and closets tidy to eliminate hiding spots.
- Store items properly: Use sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes, which attract spiders.
- Inspect before bringing inside: Check firewood, boxes, and stored furniture before moving them indoors.
- Control other pests: Since brown recluses feed on insects, reducing their prey helps deter them.
- Use sticky traps: Place traps near baseboards or corners to monitor spider activity.
Why Professional Help Matters
If you see multiple brown recluse spiders or notice bites, it’s time to call in an expert. Professional pest control technicians can accurately identify the spiders, treat affected areas, and prevent future infestations safely.
Bug-A-Way Pest Control offers trusted spider control services throughout Missouri. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your home spider-free year-round.