The Likelihood of Finding Multiple Brown Recluse Spiders After Discovering One
Introduction
When you find a spider in your house, it is virtually certain that your home is hospitable to other spiders as well. Many species of spiders, including the common brown recluse, have adapted to living alongside humans (synanthropic). This adaptation often leads to the presence of multiple spiders in a home, even if they do not make their presence known immediately. Most spiders are harmless to humans, and some species, like the brown recluse, are not actively seeking out humans for a bite.
Encountering Multiple Spiders in a Short Timeframe
It is quite common to find multiple spiders within a short period of time. For example, a few weeks ago, the author found two brown recluse spiders in quick succession. The first was noticed when the blinds were closed, and the second was spotted on a curtain rod as the blinds were opened. This experience suggests that it is likely that there are more spiders in the area, even if their presence is not immediately apparent.
Factors Influencing Spider Presence
The geographic distribution of spiders, including the brown recluse, can vary significantly. While there are reports of brown recluse spiders and their bites in certain parts of the United States, such as the Midwest, it is less common in other regions. For instance, the author, who lives in southern Louisiana, had never found a brown recluse until one was discovered in the grandfather's house after his death. This discovery indicates that even in locations where the species is not commonly found, it is possible for them to be present.
How to Identify and Classify Spiders
If you suspect the presence of a brown recluse or any other species of spider, it is best to send a good photo or specimen to a real expert for identification. This can help you understand the nature of the species you are dealing with and whether it poses any significant risk to you or your family.
Habits of the Brown Recluse Spider
The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) is known for its reclusive nature. They are not aggressive and only bite in self-defense, typically when their habitat is disturbed. This habit means that they are often out of sight and out of mind, making them difficult to spot. However, it is important to note that they still play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
These spiders are not typically found in well-trodden areas of the home, but in the darker, less visited parts. They are not likely to emerge to bite a human, as they prefer to stay in their webs and only attack when disturbed. Therefore, while it may be tempting to try to eliminate all spiders from your home, this could inadvertently lead to an increase in insect populations, which the spiders help to control.
Conclusion
The brown recluse spider, while not entirely harmless, poses a low risk to humans. Its bite is painful and can result in necrosis and infection, but it does not make the victim sick. These spiders are not actively seeking out humans for a bite and are more likely to remain hidden. Therefore, it is important to maintain a clean environment in areas where you can see and interact with the spiders, while avoiding the use of insecticides in favor of allowing the spiders to control other insects.