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Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa)

Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa), typical appearance of the species

Invertebrates · Difficulty: Expert

Key facts and care guidance for Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) (origin: The south-central USA (brown recluse / fiddleback)). Adult size around body ~6–11 mm, leg span ~2–3 cm (a violin-shaped marking on the forebody). Life expectancy approx. 2–4 years (sometimes longer in captivity). The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Brown recluse spider: How big does the enclosure need to be?

A small, absolutely escape-proof box ~20×20×20 cm with plenty of flat hides.

Brown recluse spider: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 21–29 °C, at night 18–21 °C.

Brown recluse spider: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: No UVB needed (nocturnal, extremely light-shy).

Brown recluse spider: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: approx. 2–4 years (sometimes longer in captivity).

Brown recluse spider: Is it suitable for beginners?

No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Expert).

Climate

Daytime temperature
21–29 °C
Night temperature
18–21 °C
Basking spot
—
Humidity
rather dry, 30–50 %, a small water dish or one humid corner
UVB
No UVB needed (nocturnal, extremely light-shy)

Enclosure

Minimum size
a small, absolutely escape-proof box ~20×20×20 cm with plenty of flat hides
Substrate
Dry substrate (coco or vermiculite), cork and bark hides

Feeding

Food
Small insects (house crickets, flies, small roaches)
Feeding interval
every 3–7 days; can fast for long periods

Key facts

Adult size
body ~6–11 mm, leg span ~2–3 cm (a violin-shaped marking on the forebody)
Life expectancy
approx. 2–4 years (sometimes longer in captivity)
Origin
The south-central USA (brown recluse / fiddleback)
Protection status
No species protection, BUT keeping venomous spiders is regulated state by state: North Rhine-Westphalia, for example, bans Loxosceles, and Hamburg requires a permit (with proof of expertise and liability insurance) – check your state law before acquiring one.
Brumation
None
Cohabitation
Keep them singly. Recluse spiders naturally live solitary in their retreat web, and when food is scarce one spider eats the other. Every extra spider also means an extra escape risk with this venomous species. Separate spiderlings individually as soon as they leave the egg sac; for breeding, put the male in only briefly and under observation.

Notes

DANGEROUS – a dermonecrotic venom (loxoscelism); the bite can cause skin necrosis. Only for experienced keepers, escape-proof, and no handling; check the legal position in your state.

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Related species

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What you need to start

To keep Brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (a small, absolutely escape-proof box ~20×20×20 cm with plenty of flat hides), substrate (Dry substrate (coco or vermiculite), cork and bark hides), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 8 November 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Loxosceles_reclusa/, https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Braune_Einsiedlerspinne, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loxosceles, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loxosceles_reclusa

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).