Quote:
Originally Posted by WT Sharpe
That's what I was thinking. I know black widows when I see them, but I'm not so certain about brown recluses. That does look like a fiddle to me, though, and although it doesn't show up so well in that photograph, the back has that hard shell-like appearance that seems to be a characteristic of some of them. That's why I posted the photo; so someone else might confirm or put to rest my suspicions. I'm glad it was dead, but now I'm worried that living ones might be lurking in my favorite reading spot.
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Recluse spiders do indeed lurk in outdoor structures, like gazebos, porches, garages, etc. And they are aggressive/defensive of 'their' territory. One of my coworkers was bitten last week by one after working in his yard.
They almost always bite twice - you won't feel it - and people react differently to their venom - which can, in extreme cases, cause extensive tissue loss at the bite sites.
I'd recommend using an outdoor fogger, or area spray, in your gazebo - just to be safe.