October 19, 2009 (Topeka, KS) — As fall begins, Schendel Pest Services wants to remind homeowners of the real health threat posed by the brown recluse spider, a frequently misidentified species.  With bites that can take three hours to develop and three weeks or longer to heal, the brown recluse injects a venom which can cause severe allergic reactions.  These reactions are most notable in children, the elderly, or those with preexisting medical conditions.

Often identified by a dark brown violin shape on its back, the brown recluse spider is predominantly found in the Midwest and Southeast of the United States.   According to Schendel President Brent Boles, “Our area is often referred to by entomologists as ‘ground zero’ for brown recluse activity.  As the brown recluse is known for its bites, many assume that this spider is aggressive when actually the opposite is true.  The brown recluse spider will bite, usually unintentionally, when it feels trapped. Whether we dig through our storage in the attic or wear a piece of clothing in which a brown recluse has made its home, their bites are reactionary. Therefore the sheer presence of this pest can increase the potential pest-related health risks facing homeowners and their families.”

The brown recluse is well known for its “secretive” behaviors as it prefers to take residence in warm, dry and dark environments, such as woodpiles, basements and closets.

Schendel Pest offers the following tips to help prevent contact with brown recluse spiders:

    * Avoid keeping clothing and shoes on the floor and consider storing inside plastic containers.
    * Shake out all clothing that has been in a hamper before wearing or washing.
    * Keep garages, attics and basements clean and clutter free.
    * If you are bitten by a spider, contact your primary care physician for medical advice.
    * If you have an infestation in your home, contact a licensed pest professional to inspect and treat the pest problem.

About Schendel Pest:  Schendel Pest Services has provided complete pest management services to commercial, industrial, and residential clients since 1947.  Schendel’s corporate office is located in Topeka, Kansas and Schendel provides services to customers in five states – Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.  Additionally, Schendel Pest Services is a partner with Copesan Services, which enables the company to sell and service commercial accounts on a national basis.