Venomous Spiders: What’s Common and What Isn’t in Coastal NC

Brown Recluse and Black Widow; Shown Beside a Nickel and Quarter for Scale

Quick explainer for Brunswick and Columbus counties

By Coastal Carolina News Staff Writer

Residents occasionally report concerns about venomous spiders, but only one of the two well‑known species is common in southeastern North Carolina.

Brown recluses are documented mainly in the western and central parts of the state and remain rare in coastal counties. Most suspected recluse sightings locally turn out to be harmless look‑alike species.

Black widows, however, are established statewide and routinely found in sheltered outdoor areas such as woodpiles, sheds, crawl spaces, and porch furniture.

Black widow females are identifiable by a glossy black body with a red hourglass marking.

Recluse bites are uncommon in this region, while black widow bites can cause significant muscle pain and require medical attention. Simple precautions, checking outdoor storage areas, shaking out shoes or gloves, and reducing debris around foundations help limit encounters.

Disclaimer:
Information is for general awareness only; seek medical care for any concerning bite or symptoms.