Wed Jul 16 14:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the information from the text:

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**Brown Recluse Spiders: More Misunderstood Than Menacing in Missouri Homes**

**CHESTERFIELD, Mo.** – Many Missouri residents may have unknowingly encountered the brown recluse spider in their homes, but experts say there’s no need to panic. According to Chris Hartley, an entomologist at The Butterfly House in Chesterfield, these spiders are common but often misunderstood.

Brown recluses prefer dark, undisturbed spaces like basements, attics, and storage rooms. Most bites occur accidentally when the spider is trapped against skin inside clothing or shoes. However, Hartley emphasizes that bites are rare, and simply seeing a brown recluse doesn’t mean your family is at risk.

“It is so hard to get bitten by a brown recluse,” Hartley said. “Even if you’ve seen one, that doesn’t mean your family’s at risk.”

Hartley also highlighted the importance of identifying spiders correctly, as many beneficial spiders are often mistaken for brown recluses and actually help control their population.

To minimize the chance of encountering brown recluses, residents are advised to keep storage areas tidy and organized. Avoid stacking boxes directly against walls or on the floor.

“If you’ve got boxes stacked on the floor, get some shelves,” he said. “Don’t pack things against the walls.”

While preventative measures can help, residents seeking long-term solutions are encouraged to consult a professional pest control service.

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