Need pest help? Save $50 on your first recurring service today with code GET50

Hobo Spider vs. Recluse

Hobo spiders and brown recluses are spiders with notorious reputations. They both are brown in coloration but have very clear and distinct physical differences. Also known as the fiddle-back spider, the brown recluse is known for the violin-shaped marking present atop its abdomen.

The other characteristic that must be seen together with the fiddle to verify a recluse is the six eyes arranged in pairs. Hobo spider coloration tends to range from rust to reddish brown. They also have distinct patterning on their abdomen which a recluse will not.

Another important distinction is that each spider occurs in very different locations of the U.S. Hobo spiders normally are found in the Pacific Northwest, and the brown recluse in the central southern part of the U.S. The brown recluse is native to the U.S., but the hobo spider is an invasive species from Europe.

Brown recluse spiders have necrotoxic venom that is capable, although unlikely, of causing necrotic lesions. Initially, hobo spiders were thought to have similar venom, but current scientific research as well as medical literature indicates the venom is not a medical threat to the average person.

Resources

Dig Deeper on Hobo Spiders

How to kill hobo spiders

Q

I read an article last night on the internet that said hobo spiders can't be killed by anything but traps. It said that all chemicals do is make the spiders angry and nothing else. Please tell me that this not true.

Hobo Spider vs. Recluse

Hobo Spider Bites

Connect with Us

Our customer care team is available for you 24 hours a day.

877-819-5061

Find a Branch

Our local Pros are the pest experts in your area.

Get a Personalized Quote

We will help you find the right treatment plan for your home.

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

© 2024 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers

Your Branch  

Call Now