About Brown Recluse Spiders

The brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) is more common in the Midwest and southern U.S., but reports occasionally surface in Boston, often due to spiders being transported in boxes or shipments. They are light to dark brown with a distinctive violin-shaped marking on the back.

Risks & Concerns

Brown recluse bites can cause painful sores and, in rare cases, systemic illness. However, most Boston-area sightings are misidentified harmless spiders. Still, the possibility of encountering a true recluse makes identification and caution important.

Prevention & Control

Since they are not established in Massachusetts, routine prevention is not necessary. If suspected, capture the spider safely for identification. General spider prevention steps—such as decluttering, sealing cracks, and controlling insects—apply broadly.