The Brown Recluse Spider: Small, Shy, and Dangerous
The brown recluse is a small, light brown spider with a violin-shaped mark on its back, earning it the nickname “violinist spider.” Measuring just 8 mm to 1.5 cm, it has six eyes instead of the usual eight.
Shy and non-aggressive, it hides in dark, quiet places like attics or woodpiles. However, if threatened or crushed, it may bite. Though rare, its bite can be serious—its venom destroys surrounding skin cells and may cause fever or vomiting. Found mainly in the U.S. Midwest and South, this spider is discreet but should be treated with caution.
