Brown Recluse Spiders
Brown recluse spiders, also known as the “fiddle-back spiders” or the “violin spiders” are America's most widely-spread and harmless arachnid species. They are found almost everywhere on the North American continent except the area at the west of the Rocky Mountains; what seems even more interesting is the fact that a variety of brown recluse spiders is also found in Hawaii. In its natural habitat the species prefers rotten tree bark as the favorite place to make the nest, but it is also found in alls sorts of house corners. The only habitat specificities that matter are retreat and low moisture levels.
Brown recluse spiders are not dangerous or aggressive; the only cases of bites occur when these creatures somehow get tangled in clothes, towels or even bed sheets. It is actually very likely to take a skin infection with a staphylococcus for a brown recluse spider bite, hence it is good to know that such injuries are rare and accidental. Brown recluse spiders are small, with an overall adult size that does not go beyond twelve millimeters; males are small then females, but they have slightly larger feet. Th color of the brown recluse spiders goes from tan to dark brown, and sometimes there may be an intense yellow pattern on the body too.
The bite of the brown recluse spiders is likely to cause a whole range of symptoms at the skin level known as loxocelism, and the greatest risk they involve is that of necrosis. Most bites are not only minor but also extremely rare; brown recluse spiders do not attack unless they feel threatened. As their very name suggests they enjoy very retreated corners where they are not bothered by light or intruders: cellars, garages, hallways or any other dark house area. Moreover, brown recluse spiders are very likely to be found behind paintings or under desks and tables.
Brown recluse spiders are also very special by the way they have the eyes located on the body. Unlike other spider species that have four pairs of eyes, brown recluse spiders have only three: one medianly located and the other two pairs lateral. If you suspect to have been bitten by such a spider, it is good to keep a close watch on how the condition of the affected area evolves. There should be no pain felt at the beginning, as reactions only appear within two or up to eight hours after the bite. Contact the doctor immediately should there be any increased discomfort, and do not let the bite untreated if its condition gets worse!