The Brown Recluse Spider is quite the exception in the arachnid world. These little critters are not to be messed with; their venom packs a deadly punch.
Reports have it that brown recluses have made themselves cozy in over 10 different states, primarily in the Southern regions where the warm climate is spider-friendly.
Where do Brown Recluse Spiders dwell?
These spiders have a preference for warm and humid environments, often taking shelter in basements or attics.
Maps indicate that their habitats are predominantly situated in the Midwest and South, with a cluster of states stretching from Texas through Georgia up to Illinois.
Sightings of brown recluses have cropped up in various places across the US, such as Florida and California, but they’re notably absent in most northern states, perhaps due to chilly weather. States like Alaska and Hawaii have also not reported any sightings.
Contrary to popular belief, the number of brown recluse spiders sighted by experts and the general public is often inflated due to their similarity to other spider species.
How dangerous are Brown Recluse spiders?
Bites from venomous brown recluses can spell serious trouble if left untreated.
However, these bites might not immediately manifest severe symptoms, leading to delays in treatment. They can result in nausea, fatigue, headaches, and vomiting, with more severe cases causing high fever, blood clots, or organ failure.
Bites are often mistaken for those of other insects, characterized by a red center with a dark violet border. Medical professionals note an uptick in cases during the summer.
Recently, a seven-year-old girl in Arkansas was almost fatally bitten by a brown recluse spider and required blood transfusions for survival. Fortunately, she is on the path to recovery. Arkansas has seen its fair share of brown recluse residents.