Spiders are a common occurrence to find in your Texas home over the fall and winter months. Like many other pests, they seek to escape the weather and follow insect prey inside your home or business. One of the most common spiders found in your home during the cooler months is the Brown Recluse Spider. Today, we at A Five Star Termite and Pest Control would like to expound a bit on brown recluse spiders.
What Do Brown Recluse Spiders Look Like?
Brown recluse spiders are often identified from the distinct dark brown violin shape on its back. This spider prefers to live in warm, dry and dark environments, such as woodpiles, basements and closets. These spiders are also notorious for their secretive behaviors. The primary coloring of the brown recluse spider varies on a scale that ranges from tan or light brown to dark brown, and as mentioned, bears the dark violin marking on back. Their size ranges from ¼ – ½ inch long with a round body.
Brown Recluse Spider Bite
Brown recluse spiders will deliver a devastating bite, but it is usually unintentional and more of a reflex if they feel trapped, often when a foot is sliding into a shoe they took residence in, or a hand that reaches to pull out a blanket that has been undisturbed for a while. A bite can take three or more hours to develop and about three weeks to heal, making it more optimal to avoid. Children, the elderly or those with preexisting medical conditions are more prone to severe allergic reactions from the venom. Initially, the bite of a brown recluse is typically not felt. Later, the stinging sensation emerges and is soon followed by the pain that is intense; it can take 6-8 hours for the pain to manifest. The surrounding bite may become swollen along with localized blisters. Difficulty sleeping, fever, and restlessness are also common symptoms. During the next 10-14 days, the dead tissue gradually sloughs away, which leaves an open ulcer that potentially exposes underlying muscles and/or bone. If bitten it is encouraged you get medical treatment as soon as possible to help manage the symptoms.
How Do Brown Recluse Spiders Get Their Name?
Brown recluse spiders, or sometimes referred to as fiddleback/violin spiders, get their name due to their reclusive nature and coloration. Noticing their webs and seeing them first hand is a sure confirmation you have them in your home. Should you discover these dangerous spiders in your Greater San Antonio, Texas home, you should call a professional for a home inspection and pest control services to keep you and your family safe.
Black Widow Spider Infestation Prevention
Prevention is effective by first hindering their access to your home. Ensure your home is well sealed by repairing any holes and gaps, particularly around utility lines and pipes. Keep the firewood stacks away from your house, at least 20 feet, and have it set organized and neat at least 18 inches off the ground. If you need to relocate your wood, be sure to wear a thick pair of work gloves. Any clothes, shoes, and blankets, especially items that are not frequently used, should be shaken out well before using them. Though a spider’s bite can be painful, the venom of the brown recluse spider is a problem.
Spider Pest Inspections, Control & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
If you suspect brown recluse spiders, or any other spiders in San Antonio, TX home, call A Five Star Termite and Pest Control and let our experts eliminate the infestations and help you prevent further pest invaders.
