Color: Light to medium brown, although they may range in color from cream-colored to dark brown or blackish gray. Length: 1/4″ – 1/2″ The brown recluse is a brownish spider with a distinctive violin-shaped mark behind its eyes, which has earned it the name “fiddle-backed” spider. It is found in undisturbed areas such as sheds, garages and dark closets. Garments left hanging for some time are favorite spots. Their bite causes a severe systemic reaction that develops a crust and a surrounding red zone. The crust falls off, leaving a deep crater which may take several months to heal. The crater may require extensive medical attention.