Cellar spiders and brown recluse spiders are two species often confused due to their shared preference for dark, quiet environments. However, understanding the difference between cellar spiders and brown recluse spiders is essential for accurate identification and effective pest control. This article explains how to identify these spiders, their unique traits, and practical steps for managing them.
Visit our Species, Control, and DIY Guide sections for additional resources on wasps and ways to tackle a wasp infestation.
Signs of Brown Recluse Infestation
What Are Cellar Spiders?
Cellar spiders, often called “daddy long-legs,” are harmless arachnids commonly found in damp, dark areas of homes and buildings.Key Characteristics of Cellar Spiders
-
Appearance: Cellar spiders have small, elongated bodies, typically light gray or tan, with long, thin legs. -
Habitat: These spiders thrive in basements, crawl spaces, and corners of rooms where humidity levels are high.
-
Behavior: They create irregular webs and vibrate in them when disturbed to confuse predators. They are non-aggressive and pose no threat to humans.
What Are Brown Recluse Spiders?
Brown recluse spiders are venomous spiders known for their distinctive violin-shaped marking and potential health risks from their bites.Key Characteristics of Brown Recluse Spiders
-
Appearance: These spiders are light to dark brown, with a compact body and a violin-shaped marking near their head.
-
Habitat: Brown recluse spiders prefer dry, undisturbed spaces like attics, closets, and storage areas. Outdoors, they hide under rocks and logs.
-
Behavior: They are shy and avoid human contact but may bite when provoked or trapped. Their bites can cause medical complications, including skin necrosis.
Signs of Cellar Spider and Brown Recluse Presence
Signs of Cellar Spider Infestation- Webs in corners, ceilings, or near damp areas.
- Presence of small, translucent spiders with long legs.
- Vibrating webs when disturbed.
Signs of Brown Recluse Infestation- Spiders hiding in undisturbed areas like boxes or under furniture.
- Bites on humans that are red, swollen, and potentially necrotic.
- Presence of shed spider skins in hidden areas.
Key Differences Between Cellar Spiders and Brown Recluse Spiders
Understanding the difference between cellar spiders and brown recluse spiders helps in accurate identification. Here’s a comparison:| Feature | Cellar Spiders | Brown Recluse Spiders |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Light gray/tan, long thin legs | Light to dark brown, violin marking |
| Body Shape | Elongated body | Compact body |
| Webs | Irregular, vibrate when disturbed | Rarely use webs for hunting |
| Health Risks | Harmless | Venomous, can cause skin necrosis |
| Preferred Habitat | Damp, dark areas | Dry, undisturbed spaces |
How to Identify Cellar Spiders and Brown Recluse Spiders
Identifying Cellar Spiders- Look for long-legged spiders in damp areas like basements or bathrooms.
- Check for irregular webs in corners or ceilings.
- Observe their behavior; cellar spiders vibrate in their webs when threatened.
- Look for the violin-shaped marking on the spider’s back.
- Inspect dry, undisturbed areas like attics, closets, and storage boxes.
- Monitor for bites on humans that are red, itchy, and possibly necrotic.
Preventing and Controlling Cellar Spiders and Brown Recluse Spiders
Tips for Managing Cellar Spiders
-
Reduce humidity with dehumidifiers. -
Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations.
-
Regularly clean and vacuum corners, ceilings, and other hiding spots.
Tips for Managing Brown Recluse Spiders
-
Declutter storage areas to reduce hiding spaces.
-
Use sticky traps in suspected infestation areas.
-
Wear gloves when handling storage boxes or firewood.
-
Seek professional pest control services for severe infestations.
