• Recluses and widow spiders are the most common poisonous spiders found in New Mexico.New Mexico Sunset image by Carlos Queral from Fotolia.com
  
  If you're planning a move to New Mexico soon or just wanting to visit family or friends, it's a good idea to know the local spiders and their associated risks. New Mexico in particular is home to quite a few species of recluses and widow spiders. Learning how to recognize these types of spiders can save you a trip to the emergency room.
  
  

Recluse Spiders

• Arizona recluse spiders are quite common in New Mexico. This spider is known for the violin-shaped dark brown spot on its body. Most recluse spiders have six eyes, while other types of spiders have eight. The desert recluse, however, does not have any violin markings. Apache and Big Bend recluses, also found in New Mexico, exhibit similar markings.
  
  

Widow Spiders

• Brown widow spiders can be found in New Mexico. Contrary to the related Western black widow, also found in New Mexico, the hourglass shape on the brown widow's body is usually orange or yellow in color, rather than red. The body of a brown widow can range in color from cream to very dark brown. Black widows, on the other hand, are always a glossy, shiny black.
  
  

Symptoms of Recluse and Widow Spider Bites

• The most common symptom of any spider bite is a red line running from the bite itself. However, recluse spiders have what is known as a necrotic bite, meaning tissue and skin surrounding the bite can be severely damaged by the venom. The venom usually forms a large lesion that can take a long time to heal. Widow bites vary from person to person, but aching muscles, abdominal pain and a dry mouth are among the symptoms associated with widow bites.
  
  

Treatment

• Get medical attention immediately if you exhibit any symptoms you suspect may be associated with a bite from one of these spiders. Both types of spiders are known for being extremely poisonous and possibly fatal.