What’s the difference between Black Widow And Brown Recluse spiders?

When it comes to spiders in Tennessee, two species often cause the most concern: the Black Widow and the Brown Recluse. Both of these venomous spiders are known for their painful bites and potential health risks. If you’re a Tennessee homeowner, knowing how to identify these spiders and understanding what to do if you encounter one can help keep your family safe.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between Black Widows and Brown Recluses, where they typically hide, how dangerous they really are, and—most importantly—how to prevent them from turning your home into theirs.

Black Widow Spiders: Tennessee’s Most Recognizable Arachnid

What Does a Black Widow Look Like?

The Black Widow spider is one of the easiest spiders to identify. Female Black Widows have a shiny black body and a distinctive red hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen. Males are smaller, lighter in color, and often have faint red or white markings but lack the prominent hourglass.

• Size: Females range from 1.5 to 2 inches when including their leg span.
• Color: Glossy black with a bright red hourglass shape.
• Other Identifiers: Strong, irregular webbing—often found low to the ground.

How Dangerous is a Black Widow Bite?

While the thought of a Black Widow bite can be terrifying, the reality is a bit less dramatic—though still serious. Their venom is a neurotoxin that can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, and spasms. In most healthy adults, the symptoms are manageable, but the elderly, children, and those with compromised immune systems should seek medical help immediately if bitten.

Symptoms of a Black Widow bite:

• Immediate sharp pain or burning sensation
• Muscle cramps, especially in the stomach and back
• Sweating, nausea, and elevated blood pressure
• Possible difficulty breathing in severe cases

Pro Tip: If you think you’ve been bitten by a Black Widow, clean the area, apply ice, and head to a healthcare professional—better safe than sorry!

Where Do Black Widows Live in Tennessee?

Black Widows love dark, undisturbed places. In Tennessee, you’re most likely to find them:

• In woodpiles, sheds, garages, and basements
• Under rocks, logs, or outdoor furniture
• In crawl spaces or cluttered storage areas

They’re typically not aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened—like if you accidentally stick your hand into their web.

Brown Recluse Spiders: Tennessee’s Hidden Threat

What Does a Brown Recluse Look Like?

The Brown Recluse spider is a bit harder to identify. They’re small, brown spiders with a violin-shaped marking on their back, earning them the nickname “fiddleback spider.” Unlike most spiders, they have six eyes arranged in pairs, rather than the usual eight.

• Size: About the size of a quarter, including the legs.
• Color: Tan to dark brown with a distinct dark violin marking.
• Other Identifiers: Fine, silky webs—not the messy webs Black Widows make.

How Dangerous is a Brown Recluse Bite?

A Brown Recluse bite can be serious, especially because it often goes unnoticed at first. Their venom is necrotic, meaning it can destroy soft tissue around the bite, leading to ulcers or even open wounds if not treated.

Symptoms of a Brown Recluse bite:

• Mild stinging or burning sensation (sometimes unnoticed)
• Redness and swelling around the bite site
• The area may blister or form a deep ulcer
• In rare cases, systemic symptoms like fever, chills, or nausea

Warning: If you suspect a Brown Recluse bite, seek medical attention. The earlier you treat it, the less severe the reaction.

Where Do Brown Recluses Live in Tennessee?

Brown Recluse spiders are true to their name—they like to hide. In Tennessee homes, you might find them:

• In attics, basements, and crawl spaces
• Inside closets, cabinets, and storage boxes
• Behind furniture or inside shoes left untouched for long periods

They’re mostly active at night and prefer dark, quiet spaces where they can go unnoticed.

Black Widow vs. Brown Recluse: Key Differences at a Glance

How to Prevent Spider Infestations in Tennessee Homes

Whether you’re worried about Black Widows, Brown Recluses, or just don’t like spiders in general, prevention is key. Here’s how to keep these eight-legged visitors outside where they belong:

1. Declutter Storage Areas: Both species love dark, undisturbed spaces. Clean out garages, attics, and basements regularly.
2. Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to seal cracks in your foundation, around windows, and along doors. Install weather stripping to block tiny gaps.
3. Eliminate Food Sources: Spiders love places with plenty of insects to eat. Use pest control methods to reduce other bugs around your home.
4. Properly Store Firewood and Outdoor Items: Keep woodpiles at least 20 feet from your home and check logs before bringing them inside.
5. Use Sticky Traps: Place sticky traps in dark corners to monitor for spiders. If you catch multiple, it’s time to call pest control.
6. Schedule Regular Pest Inspections: A professional can identify potential problems before they turn into infestations.

What to Do If You See a Black Widow or Brown Recluse

• Don’t panic. Both spiders are shy and only bite if they feel threatened.
• Avoid handling them directly. Use a jar or glass to trap the spider if possible.
• Call a pest control expert. Especially if you spot more than one or find webs inside your home.

Need Spider Control in Tennessee? Call the Experts!

If you’re finding spiders around your home—or worse, if you think you’ve spotted a Black Widow or Brown Recluse—don’t wait for an accidental bite. The professionals at Foundation Pest Control specialize in safe, effective spider control services in Tennessee.

We’ll identify problem areas, safely remove venomous spiders, and create a plan to prevent future infestations. Contact us today for a free inspection and take back control of your home.

FAQs About Black Widow and Brown Recluse Spiders