The brown recluse spider is a species of venomous spider that, along with other species of venomous spiders, prefer to live in very warm climates like the tropical/subtropical climate that is found throughout South Florida. While no species of brown recluse spider is native to Florida, several species have been introduced into the state and have established populations. However, while brown recluse spiders can be found living throughout South Florida, it doesn’t mean that these spiders are out and about looking for people to bite. In fact, coming into contact with a brown recluse spider is fairly rare because of their nocturnal nature and the fact that these spiders are actually quite shy and reclusive – hence the name brown “recluse.”
When it comes to brown recluse spiders, it is important to understand that while they are not aggressive and rarely seen by people, they are still a species of spider that needs to be respected – their venom is highly toxic and can cause significant health problems for a person that is bitten. The reaction a person has to a brown recluse spider bite can range from mild to severe. In many people, the only symptom they will have is a reddish colored bump where they were bitten that looks very similar to a pimple, while others will have much more severe reactions. In the case of a severe reaction, the skin around the bite becomes necrotic, is prone to infection, and takes quite a bit of time to heal. If you are ever bitten by a brown recluse spider, it is always important to seek medical attention.
Brown recluse spiders thrive in hot, dry weather; the summer heat found in Florida can allow these spiders to become more active. Brown recluse spiders are typically found living outside in places that allow them to remain unnoticed such as underneath buildings and roof eaves, or in and around piles of wood or other organic debris, though sometimes these spiders will move indoors (sheds, garages, basements, closets) to escape extremely hot temperatures or while foraging for food. In fact, finding these spiders living in or very near your home is a good indication of a larger pest problem. It could mean that your home and property may be infested with other species of household insects that brown recluse spiders like to feed on including flies, millipedes, ants, roaches, other spiders, and other household invading insects.
If you think you are seeing brown recluse spiders in and around your home, it is important to contact a pest control professional. The professionals at Nozzle Nolen can come to your South Florida property, identify the spider, and provide treatment services. Our experts will then work with you to implement an eco-friendly pest control plan to keep spiders, and the prey that is attracting them to your home, away from your property and out of your South Florida home throughout the entire year. Contact South Florida’s pest control experts at Nozzle Nolen today to learn more!
