BROWN RECLUSE VS. BLACK WIDOW SPIDERS

So you’ve found a large black or brown spider in your home. Do you wonder if you have found a brown recluse in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Eastern Shore of Maryland? Viking Pest Control has compiled some helpful information about distinguishing between the black widow spider vs. the brown recluse spider. 

Brown Recluse Spider Facts

Brown recluse spiders mostly live in the central and southern states. It’s possible to find a brown recluse in NJ, PA, MD, or DE but it’s more likely you’ll find one of the many other types of brown spiders that live here.

Here’s what the brown recluse spider looks like: 

• Color: Ranges from dark brown to tan
• Size: Comparable to a quarter dollar coin
• Markings: A violin-like design on its back
• Legs: Long, thin legs without obvious spines
• Eyes: Six eyes in three groups of two

If you’re not sure, don’t look too closely, because brown recluse spiders are extremely venomous. Call either a pest control service knowledgeable about spiders or a scientist.

Description of the Black Widow Spider

Black widows can be found all over the US. Here’s what one looks like: 

• Color: shiny black or dark brown
• Body Size: 1/10 to 1/2 of an inch long
• Total Length (With Legs): About 1 1/2 inches
• Markings: Orange or red hourglass design on the belly, and (sometimes) red or red-white markings on the back

Dangers of the Black Widow Spider vs. the Brown Recluse Spider

Black widows and brown recluses don’t seek us out to attack us. They can’t even bite through clothing. They usually just look for flies and other insects to feed on. 

But a spider will bite you if it gets pressed against your skin. This can happen when you: 

• Pick up a box that has a spider on it
• Roll onto a spider in your sleep
• Put on shoes or other clothes a spider crawled into

Black widow venom can impair breathing and cause other muscular problems. Brown recluse venom can break down skin and other tissues. Bites can be painful and damaging but are usually not fatal.

Spider Elimination

If you need spider pest control in your home, it’s important to get rid of a possible infestation. You may never be bitten, but it’s a risk, especially to smaller family members and pets. 

Call Viking Pest Control today and learn about our year-round Home Protection Plans that can protect you from spiders.

Call Viking at 800-618-2847 to learn more about spider pest control and extermination services, or get a fast, free quote online today!