Is this species observed in France?
The brown recluse’s natural habitat is primarily in the United States (particularly in the Midwest and South), with some populations in Mexico and Canada. However, the era of globalization and trade has allowed some individuals to travel clandestinely to Europe .
Several reports of suspicious bites have been reported in various French departments in recent years. However, experts suggest that it could be a related species: Loxosceles rufescens, another fiddler spider naturally present on French soil .
Its habitat: discreet and dark shelters
As its name suggests, this spider is particularly fond of isolated, dry, and dimly lit areas. Outdoors, it can be found under rocks, in piles of wood, or in piles of dry leaves. Indoors, it prefers quiet areas such as attics, basements, or storage boxes .
Rather solitary, it weaves irregular webs that it does not use to capture its prey. It prefers to wait patiently for night to hunt, remaining motionless for long hours.
Continue on the next page