Hobo spiders and brown recluse spiders are often mistaken for each other, but they have distinct differences in appearance, behavior, habitat, and venom potency. Here’s a complete comparison to help you identify them and understand the risks they pose.

Appearance

Hobo Spider (Eratigena agrestis)

Size: About 1 to 2 inches, including legs.

Color: Light to dark brown with chevron (V-shaped) markings on the abdomen.

Legs: Hairy but without spines.

Eye Pattern: 8 small eyes arranged in three rows.

Distinctive Feature: No violin-shaped marking on the back.

Brown Recluse Spider (Loxosceles reclusa)

Size: Around 0.5 to 1 inch, including legs.

Color: Light to dark brown, sometimes with a grayish or yellowish tint.

Legs: Long and thin, with no hairs or spines.

Eye Pattern: 6 small eyes arranged in pairs (most spiders have 8).

Distinctive Feature: Violin-shaped marking on its back near the head.