Spiders often cause apprehension, and the brown recluse generates significant concern. Many fear encountering these spiders, especially regarding their presence in various regions. This anxiety often stems from myths and misinformation. Understanding the facts about brown recluse spiders helps address these fears.
Presence in Massachusetts
The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) is not native to Massachusetts. Its established range extends through the Midwest and South, from southeastern Nebraska to southwestern Ohio, and south into Georgia and most of Texas. New England’s climate, including Massachusetts, is inhospitable for these spiders, as they prefer warmer, drier environments.
Reports of brown recluse spiders in Massachusetts are rare and usually a result of misidentification. Occasionally, brown recluse spiders might be accidentally transported into the state through moving boxes, luggage, or freight from their native regions. However, these isolated instances do not lead to the establishment of breeding populations, preventing them from thriving or spreading naturally within Massachusetts.
Identifying Brown Recluse Spiders
Accurate identification is important, as many common spiders are mistaken for them. One distinguishing feature is the “violin” or “fiddle” shaped marking on its cephalothorax, the fused head and thorax region. The “neck” of this violin points towards its rear. However, this marking can be faint, especially on younger spiders, and other spider species can have similar patterns.
A more reliable identification method is its unique eye arrangement. Unlike most spiders that have eight eyes, the brown recluse has only six eyes, arranged in three pairs. These three pairs are set in a semicircle. Brown recluse spiders are light to medium brown, though their color can vary from whitish to dark brown or grayish. They lack distinct markings on their legs or abdomen, differentiating them from other spiders with stripes, bands, or patterns.
Common Massachusetts Spiders Often Mistaken for Brown Recluse
Many spiders commonly found in Massachusetts are often misidentified as brown recluses due to their brown color or appearance. Wolf spiders are large, hairy, and often brown. They are ambush predators that do not spin webs for catching prey, preferring to hunt on the ground in woodpiles, garages, or attics.
Funnel weaver spiders, sometimes called “grass spiders,” are also brownish and construct sheet-like webs with a funnel retreat. These spiders are common outdoors in grassy areas but can be found indoors. Yellow sac spiders are also mistaken for brown recluses, as some are pale yellow or greenish with a darker stripe. They build small, sac-like silk retreats instead of large webs and are known to bite if disturbed.
Cellar spiders, also known as “daddy long-legs,” are light brown and have long, slender legs. Some species can have faint markings resembling a violin shape. Despite superficial resemblances, these Massachusetts spiders are harmless to humans. They help control insect populations around homes.
Understanding Spider Bites and When to Seek Medical Attention
Most spider bites, regardless of the species, are not medically significant and result in mild, localized reactions. A common spider bite can resemble a mosquito bite, causing a small red bump, minor swelling, itching, or localized pain. Basic first aid involves cleaning the affected area with soap and water to prevent infection. Applying a cold compress reduces swelling and discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relievers manage pain, and antihistamines alleviate itching. Monitor the bite site for changes. Seek medical attention if the bite area shows signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, pus, or streaks spreading from the wound. Consult a healthcare professional if pain becomes severe, the bite does not improve within a few days, or systemic symptoms like fever, body aches, muscle cramps, or a spreading rash develop.