For many families in Missouri, the brown recluse spider is a constant worry. This species is very common across our state, from the busy streets of Kansas City to quiet towns like Clinton.
These spiders are famous for being shy, but that does not mean they are not around. They prefer to stay out of sight, which is how they earned their name. Because they love dark and quiet spaces, our houses often provide the perfect home for them.
It can be stressful to think about these eight-legged guests hiding in your walls. Luckily, Reliable Pest Solutions understands the unique habits of Missouri spiders and can help you reclaim your home from these unwanted intruders.
The Favorite Hiding Spots in Missouri Basements
Many Missouri homes have basements that stay cool and dark all year. These areas are prime real estate for a brown recluse. They are not like common house spiders that build webs in plain sight.
Instead, a recluse looks for tight gaps and corners where it can hide during the day. They love to tuck themselves behind wooden pallets or under old pieces of plywood.
If you have a corner of the basement that has not been touched in months, a spider might have claimed it. They often build small, messy webs in these low-traffic areas to use as a retreat.
Clutter is a Map for Missouri Spiders
The biggest draw for a brown recluse is clutter. To a spider, a pile of cardboard boxes is like a luxury apartment. Cardboard is a favorite material because it feels like rotting tree bark.
In many Missouri garages and attics, these boxes sit for years without being moved. Spiders crawl into the flaps and make themselves at home. They also love piles of old clothing or stacks of newspapers.
If you have items sitting directly on the floor, you are giving them a perfect place to stay. It is much better to use plastic bins with tight lids to store your holiday decorations and extra clothes.
Why They Love Our Closets and Bedrooms
While they prefer a quiet attic, brown recluse spiders do venture into our living spaces. They are most active at night when they go out to hunt for other bugs. During these midnight trips, they often get trapped in things we use every day.
A spider might crawl into a shoe or hide in a towel on the bathroom floor. In Missouri bedrooms, they are often found behind headboards or inside bed skirts.
If your bed touches the wall, it creates a bridge for them to climb up. Keeping your bed pulled slightly away from the wall can make a big difference in your safety.
Managing the Outside of Your Missouri Property
The battle against these spiders often starts outside your house. Missouri yards often have woodpiles or rock walls that sit close to the home. These are natural homes for the brown recluse.
As the weather changes, they will look for ways to move inside. They can squeeze through tiny cracks in your foundation or gaps under your siding. It is a good idea to keep your firewood stacked at least twenty feet away from your home.
You should also trim back any bushes that touch your walls. By creating a clear space around your house, you make it harder for spiders to get in.
Simple Tips to Avoid a Bite
Most brown recluse bites happen by accident when a spider feels trapped against your skin. To stay safe, always shake out your shoes and wear gloves when moving old boxes. These spiders are not aggressive, but they will bite if squished.
If your Missouri home has an infestation, Reliable Pest Solutions can help. Their experts find hidden nests and create a professional plan to keep your family safe from these shy intruders.