The shape and intensity of the fiddle design may vary. A more constant characteristic for identification is the number and pattern of the eyes. Most spiders have four pairs of eyes. Brown recluse spider with violin shape on cephalothorax and arrangement of six eyes. These spiders are pale tan to brown in color.
Males are generally half the size of females.
Distribution, Habitat, And Habits The brown recluse spider has been collected throughout Alabama but is more commonly found in the northern half of the state. It is commonly found indoors in storage areas such as closets, basements, and cellars. The spiders take shelter in boxes, stored clothing, shoes, under furniture, folded bedding, and any other areas of clutter where it is dry and warm. Brown recluse spiders are adaptable. They are active in temperatures ranging between 45 and 110 degrees F, can survive long periods without food or water, and may live for up to 2 years.