When it comes to pests in the St. Louis area, few evoke as much concern as the Brown Recluse spider. And while their reputation can stir up fear, the truth is more practical than panicked—understanding what they look like, where they hide, and how to prevent them is the key to protecting your home and your family.
At STL Pest Control, we’ve helped countless homeowners spot the signs of Brown Recluse activity and take action before things get out of hand. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about these elusive spiders.
What Is a Brown Recluse Spider?
The Brown Recluse, scientifically known as Loxosceles reclusa, is native to the central and southern U.S.—including Missouri. These spiders are known for their reclusive behavior, often hiding in dark, quiet spaces and rarely venturing into the open.
Unlike most common spiders, the Brown Recluse isn’t aggressive. In fact, they prefer to avoid humans altogether. Most bites happen by accident—typically when someone unknowingly disturbs their hiding spot in a shoe, towel, or storage box.
How to Identify a Brown Recluse
Proper identification is essential. Many harmless spiders get mistaken for a Brown Recluse, leading to unnecessary worry—or worse, untreated infestations.
Here’s what to look for:
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Color: They’re typically light to medium brown, but can range slightly darker or lighter.
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Size: They’re not very large—about the size of a quarter when you include the legs.
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The Violin Marking: The most iconic feature is a dark, violin-shaped mark on the top of their cephalothorax (the front part of their body), with the “neck” of the violin pointing toward the rear.
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Eyes: Most spiders have eight eyes. The Brown Recluse has only six, arranged in three pairs—one of the most reliable identifiers.
If you’re unsure, take a clear photo (without getting too close!) and contact a pest professional for identification.
Where Brown Recluses Like to Hide
True to their name, Brown Recluses prefer to stay hidden. In St. Louis homes, they’re often found in undisturbed areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and closets. They especially love cardboard boxes, stacks of clothes, stored linens, and cluttered storage areas.
Outdoors, they hide under logs, rocks, and woodpiles—places where they can stay hidden and undisturbed. During cooler months, they often move indoors in search of warmth, making homes in the Midwest particularly inviting.
Are Brown Recluses Dangerous?
This is one of the most common concerns we hear. Brown Recluse bites can be serious, but they’re also rare. The spider will typically only bite when trapped against skin—like when you put on a shoe or roll over in bed.
Most bites are mild, causing redness, swelling, or a small sore. In rare cases, the venom can cause necrotic (tissue-damaging) wounds that may require medical treatment. If you suspect a bite and notice worsening symptoms over time, it’s best to seek medical advice.
It’s also worth noting: many alleged Brown Recluse bites turn out to be something else entirely—like a skin infection or bite from another insect. That’s why proper identification is so important.
How to Prevent Brown Recluse Spiders in Your Home
While you may not be able to completely eliminate Brown Recluses from the outdoor environment, there’s plenty you can do to keep them out of your living space:
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Declutter storage areas, especially closets, basements, and attics.
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Seal cracks and gaps around your foundation, windows, doors, and utility lines.
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Use sealed containers for storing clothes, linens, and keepsakes.
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Shake out clothing, towels, and shoes before using—especially if they’ve been unused for a while.
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Reduce outdoor hiding spots like woodpiles or debris near your home’s foundation.
Consistent cleaning and organization go a long way in making your home less inviting to these shy intruders.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve spotted more than one Brown Recluse, found egg sacs, or are unsure of what you’re dealing with, don’t wait. A professional pest inspection can provide peace of mind—and in cases of infestation, targeted treatment is essential.
At STL Pest Control, we know how to identify, treat, and prevent Brown Recluse activity using safe, effective methods designed for homes in the St. Louis area. Our team will inspect key areas, advise on preventive steps, and apply treatment if needed—so you can rest easy knowing your family is protected.
Stay One Step Ahead of Spiders
The Brown Recluse may be quiet and sneaky, but that doesn’t mean you have to live in fear. With a little knowledge and proactive care, you can minimize the risk and stay in control.
If you suspect Brown Recluse activity in your home, give STL Pest Control a call today. We’re proud to serve homeowners across St. Louis with honest advice, experienced service, and long-term peace of mind.