In Washington state it is a very common experience to spot a brown spider and confuse it with brown recluse. This also frightens the people because brown recluse bites can cause severe damage. So before you get afraid by seeing a brown spider let me clear your confusion.
The Short Answer: Almost Certainly Not
Loxosceles reclusa that refers to brown recluse are not to Washington state. However they are present in the United States but only in south central and Midwestern regions. This clearly confirms that brown recluse can not be found in Washington. This fact is also documented in many research papers.
Then Why Do People Keep Reporting Them?
The obvious reason behind people’s confusion is Misidentification, native people often confuse brown spiders with brown recluse and report them.
Some species of spiders like grass spider, hobo spider, and various ground species of spider look quite similar to brown recluse at first glance. Presence of these spiders in areas like garages, woodpiles, dark corners, and basements makes the situation worse, because brown recluse also prefer these places to hide.
Some Identification Tips for Brown Recluse:
If you find a brown spider, look for these features:
- Violin shaped mark on its back
- Six eyes arranged in three pairs
Fact: Normally spiders have eight eyes.
Carefully check these features, if find the exact ones immediately report to the concerned department.
Is It Possible that Brown Recluse Built a Colony In Washington?
There is a possibility that one or maybe two brown recluses somehow arrive in Washington through the box or parcel during shipping. However it is quite impossible for one spider to establish a whole colony on its own.
What Spiders in Washington Are Actually Dangerous?
If you are thinking that Washington is free from dangerous spiders,then you have to know about:
- The Black Widow (Latrodectus hesperus)
- The Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis)
The western black widow:
The female spider of this species is more dangerous than the male.
Features: The entire body is blackish with only a mild red mark underneath.
Toxicity Level: If the female bit you have to rush to the hospital immediately.
Availability Area: Mostly found in dry areas like rock walls, garages, and woodpiles.
The Hobo Spider:
Features: Brown in color and quite similar to brown recluse.
Toxicity Level: Their bite does not cause a dangerous wound but still it is preferred to avoid and take medical help.
Availability Area: They love to live in dark and dry places.
What Should You Do If You Think You Found One?
If you spot a brown recluse, then do not panic and immediately report it, it will be better if you can capture it and seal it in a container. Because you can then ask any professional or Washington state university extension to identify the spider for you.
Why Does the Brown Recluse Not Live in Washington?
Brown recluse prefer warm climate whereas in Washington the climate is moist, cool, and maritime. Which is unsuitable for spiders. It is difficult to thrive in such a cool environment.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are brown recluse spiders native to Washington? | No |
| Have any been found in Washington? | Rarely |
| What spider is most often mistaken for one? | Hobo spider and grass spiders |
| What dangerous spiders does Washington have? | Western black widow |
| How do you identify a brown recluse? | Violin marking, six eyes in three pairs |
| What should you do if bitten by any spider? | Seek medical attention if wound develops |
