When it comes to dangerous spiders, sensational headlines often exaggerate the threat. However, one spider that has gained a reputation—not necessarily through aggression, but due to its venom—is the brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa). Commonly referred to as the “violin spider” due to a distinctive dark marking on its back, the brown recluse remains elusive but misunderstood.

In this article, we will explore the true nature of the brown recluse spider, where it lives, how to identify it, the real risks of its bite, and what to do if you think you’ve encountered one. Let’s separate the myths from the facts.

What Is the Brown Recluse Spider?

The brown recluse is a small, light to dark brown spider with a body size typically ranging from 8 mm to 15 mm (approximately the size of a dime to a penny). It belongs to the Loxosceles genus and is often identified by the violin-shaped marking on its back, just behind the eyes—hence its nickname, the “violinist spider.”

Unlike most spiders that have eight eyes, the brown recluse has only six eyes, arranged in pairs. This subtle difference is one of the key identifying features for entomologists and pest experts. Its legs are long and delicate, and its body has a velvety, smooth texture without noticeable spines or stripes.

Despite its notoriety, the brown recluse is not naturally aggressive. It prefers isolation, hiding in dark, undisturbed places. It bites only when it feels trapped, such as being pressed against human skin accidentally.

Where Do Brown Recluse Spiders Live?