It’s small. It’s quiet. And it doesn’t go looking for trouble. But one bite from the brown recluse spider can turn your day — or even your health — upside down. Known for its elusive nature and potent venom, this spider may not be aggressive, but it’s definitely dangerous when provoked or accidentally disturbed.
Often referred to as the “violin spider” due to the distinct violin-shaped marking on its back, the brown recluse is a master of camouflage. Its light brown, velvety body typically measures between 8 millimeters and 1.5 centimeters — about the size of a dime — making it easy to overlook in the shadows where it prefers to hide.
Unlike most spiders, which have eight eyes , the brown recluse has six eyes arranged in three pairs , a unique feature that helps experts identify it from other species. But this subtle difference doesn’t make it any less dangerous.
