**The Brown Recluse Spider: Small but Dangerous**

The brown recluse is a small, shy spider known for its violin-shaped mark, earning it the nickname “violinist spider.” It measures just 8 mm to 1.5 cm and has six eyes instead of the usual eight. Its light brown, velvety body blends into its surroundings, making it hard to spot.

Though not aggressive, it bites when startled or crushed. As the article warns, “a simple bite can lead to significant damage to the skin.” The spider’s venom is cytotoxic, destroying cells around the bite. Effects range from skin damage to rare but serious symptoms like fever and vomiting.

The brown recluse prefers dry, dark, and quiet places. Outdoors, it hides under rocks, wood piles, or leaves. Indoors, it’s found in attics, garages, and cardboard boxes.

It mainly lives in the southern and midwestern United States, with rare sightings in Mexico and Canada.

Despite its dangerous bite, the brown recluse isn’t a threat unless disturbed. As the article notes, “it doesn’t look for trouble,” but knowing where it hides can help avoid unwanted encounters.

Would you like a visual diagram of where to find it or how to identify it?