Distribution

The brown recluse spider and ten additional species of Loxosceles are native to the United States. In addition, a few non-native species have become established in limited areas of the country. The brown recluse spider is found mainly in the central Midwestern states southward to the Gulf of Mexico (see map). Isolated cases in Ohio are likely attributable to this spider occasionally being transported in materials from other states. Although uncommon, there are more confirmed reports of Loxosceles rufescens (Mediterranean recluse) than the brown recluse in Ohio. It, too, is a human-associated species with similar habits and probably similar venom risks (unverified).

Preventing spider bites

  • Shake out clothing and shoes before getting dressed.

  • Inspect bedding and towels before use.

  • Wear gloves when handling firewood, lumber, and rocks (be sure to inspect the gloves for spiders before putting them on).

  • Remove bed skirts and storage boxes from underneath beds. Move the bed away from the wall.

  • Exercise care when handling cardboard boxes (recluse spiders often are found in the space under folded cardboard flaps).

Exclusion

  • Install tight-fitting screens on windows and doors; also install door sweeps.

  • Seal or caulk cracks and crevices where spiders can enter the house.

  • Install yellow or sodium vapor light bulbs outdoors since these attract fewer insects for spiders to feed upon.

  • Tape the edges of cardboard boxes to prevent spider entry.

  • Use plastic bags (sealed) to store loose items in the garage, basement, and attic.

Sanitation

  • Remove trash, old boxes, old clothing, wood piles, rock piles, and other unwanted items.

  • Eliminate clutter in closets, basements, attics, garages, and outbuildings.

  • Do not stack wood against the house.

  • Clean up dead insects that the brown recluse spider can feed on.

Non-chemical control

  • Use sticky traps or glue boards to capture spiders.

  • Dust and vacuum thoroughly to remove spiders, webs, and egg sacs (dispose of the vacuum bag in a container outdoors).

  • Use a rolled up newspaper or fly swatter to kill individual spiders.