Chilean Recluse Spider

Loxosceles laeta

Color: Light to dark brown

Size: Body about 8-15 mm (0.3-0.6 in), legs 4 cm (1.6 in)

Shape: Long legs and small, oval body

Nutrition: Usually insects such as cockroaches, flies and ants etc. They paralyze their prey using venom and start digesting it from the outside.

Habitat: Chile, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil
It is found in North America and some parts of Europe.

General Behavior of the Chilean Recluse Spider

Active at night. It is solitary and avoids and dislikes human contact. It is not an aggressive species and is defensive unless provoked. Bites from humans usually happen when they accidentally put pressure on them.

Dark, dry and undisturbed places such as attics, closets, under furniture are preferred.

The Chilean Recluse Spider weaves irregular, thin and messy webs. It uses the webs for shelter, not for catching prey. It stalks its prey and uses poison. Can live for years under ideal conditions. Their life span is long, up to 4 years.

Are Recluse Spiders in Chile a Threat?

Yes! The bites they cause are medically important;

Necrotic skin damage (tissue death)

Severe pain, fever and infections

In rare cases, systemic reactions (affecting the whole body)

What Does a Chilean Spider Bite Look Like?
Mild cases: Redness, swelling and itching
Serious cases: An ulcer that grows and turns black (necrosis)
Symptoms may take hours or days to appear.

Chilean Recluse Spider Specimen can have the following effect;

Should You Kill a Chilean Recluse Spider?

Since they play an important role in pest control, it is best to remove them without killing them. But if they pose a risk, contact professional pest control to remove them safely.

Prevention Methods and Natural Deterrents

Home Protection Methods

Create a clean and organized environment.

Checking behind and under furniture.

Keeping doors and windows closed.

Regular cleaning

🌿 Natural deterrents

Lavender and peppermint oil can be used; spiders do not like pungent odors like lavender and peppermint. It can also be used as a spray.

Cedarwood oil can be used; Cedar oil helps to keep away many types of insects and spiders.

Diatomaceous earth can be used; this chemical-free powder can repel spiders when sprinkled in their hiding places.

Cookie Policy

Disclaimer

The written content, images, and all other materials on InsectGuide.org are owned by this site, unless otherwise stated, and are protected by national and international copyright laws. The information provided on this site is intended for general informational and entertainment purposes regarding insects and pests and should not be considered scientific research or medical advice. For accurate and detailed information about insect bites, pest control, or entomology, it is recommended to consult licensed professionals.

Some images on this site may be publicly available or sourced from open licenses. All content is used in compliance with applicable usage rights.

For comments and feedback, you can reach us through the contact section.