My travels have taken me to various countries, and in some of them, I’ve encountered brown recluse spiders (or similar species within the Loxosceles family). These spiders are shy, elusive, and fascinating, but their behaviors often vary depending on the environment and local conditions.
Here are 10 places I’ve visited where I encountered these spiders, along with insights into their behaviors in each location.
1. United States (Southern States)
Brown recluse spiders are most commonly found in the central and southern United States, and this is where I’ve had the most encounters with them. In states like Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas, they’re abundant in homes, sheds, and basements.
- What I noticed:
In Texas, I saw them frequently in dark corners of basements and under furniture. In Missouri, I found them under piles of firewood near a cabin. They seem to prefer undisturbed spaces, whether indoors or outdoors.
2. Mexico
During a trip to northern Mexico, I encountered a Loxosceles species in a rural area. They looked very similar to the brown recluse spiders I’d seen in the U.S.
- What I noticed:
They were hiding in cracks and crevices in adobe walls and under old furniture. Unlike in the U.S., they seemed more commonly found outdoors, probably due to the warm climate.
3. Brazil
In Brazil, I came across the South American recluse spider (Loxosceles laeta), which is larger and more venomous than its North American cousin.
- What I noticed:
In São Paulo, I found one hiding behind a bathroom cabinet in a guesthouse. They seemed more aggressive than the brown recluse, but still avoided confrontation unless disturbed. Locals told me they’re often found in urban areas.
4. Argentina
While visiting Buenos Aires, I learned about another Loxosceles species and even spotted one in a neglected garden behind a rental house.
- What I noticed:
This spider was hiding under a pile of old leaves. The dry, temperate conditions of the area seemed to mimic the ideal habitat for these spiders.
5. Chile
In Santiago, Chile, I encountered the Chilean recluse spider (Loxosceles laeta), considered one of the most dangerous recluse species.
- What I noticed:
It was hiding in an unused closet of a friend’s home. People there are very cautious about these spiders, as their venom can cause severe reactions. They often stay in dark, cluttered areas.
6. South Africa
While visiting Cape Town, I spotted a recluse-like spider in a hotel storage room. Though it wasn’t the North American brown recluse, it belonged to the same Loxosceles genus.
- What I noticed:
This spider seemed smaller than the American recluse and was found in a dry, dusty corner. Locals mentioned that they’re rare but still present in some parts of the country.
7. Australia
Australia doesn’t have brown recluse spiders, but I encountered the closely related Loxosceles rufescens (Mediterranean recluse spider) during a visit to Sydney.
- What I noticed:
It was hiding under outdoor furniture near a garden. This species seemed to prefer the outdoor environment and was less shy than the North American recluse.
8. India
During a visit to Rajasthan, I found a recluse-like spider hiding in the corner of an old temple. While not officially identified as a brown recluse, it closely resembled one.
- What I noticed:
It was in a dry, shaded area, far from foot traffic. Locals weren’t familiar with the spider, but its behavior matched the reclusive habits of other Loxosceles species.
9. Greece
In Greece, particularly in the countryside, I encountered the Mediterranean recluse spider (Loxosceles rufescens), a close relative of the brown recluse.
- What I noticed:
These spiders were commonly found in stone walls and abandoned buildings. They’re slightly smaller than the American recluse but just as shy.
10. Egypt
While exploring ruins near Luxor, I spotted a Loxosceles species in a dark, dusty corner of an ancient structure.
- What I noticed:
This spider seemed well-adapted to the dry, arid conditions. It was hiding in cracks and crevices in the stone walls, completely avoiding open spaces.
Final Thoughts
My encounters with brown recluse spiders (and their relatives) across the globe have taught me a lot about their adaptability and behaviors. While their habitats and appearances may vary slightly depending on the country, one thing remains constant: their preference for dark, undisturbed spaces.
