The brown recluse is one of the most feared spiders in the Midwest, and for good reason. Kansas is well within its natural range, and they are commonly found in homes throughout the Overland Park area. Understanding what they look like and where they hide is the first step in protecting your family from a dangerous spider bite.
What Does a Brown Recluse Look Like?
The brown recluse has key identifying features. It is a sandy-to-medium brown color. The most distinctive feature is a violin-shaped marking on the top of its body, which is why it is often called a fiddleback spider. Another unique feature is its eyes. While most spiders have eight eyes, the brown recluse has six eyes arranged in three pairs. They are typically about the size of a quarter, including their legs.
Where Do Brown Recluse Spiders Hide?
These spiders prefer dark, dry, undisturbed areas. Common hiding spots include closets, attics, basements, inside cardboard boxes, behind furniture, and inside shoes or clothing that hasn't been worn in a while. They are most active at night and are rarely seen during the day.
The Danger of a Brown Recluse Spider Bite
The bite of a brown recluse is dangerous. Initially, a bite may cause little to no pain, which is why people often don't realize they've been bitten. Over the next several hours, the bite site can become red, swollen, and painful. In some cases, the venom causes a necrotic wound, where the skin and tissue around the bite begins to break down. You should seek medical attention immediately if a brown recluse bite is suspected.
Call a Brown Recluse Exterminator in Overland Park
If brown recluses are found in the home, professional treatment is the safest option. Frontier Trapper can treat the entire home, targeting the dark, hidden areas where these spiders live. Contact us today for expert brown recluse extermination in Overland Park.