Warm weather in Wales has led to more sightings of large spiders in homes before autumn has officially arrived, according to spider identification expert Stuart Hine.
Speaking to the Natural History Museum, Hine explained that the recent and ongoing warm weather means many people will spot spiders inside earlier than usual. However, he clarified that this does not mean there are more of them.
Why sightings are up
Hine said: "They aren't bigger, and there aren't really more of them. What we can say is that because of the weather and our windows and doors remaining open, there are more observations of some of the larger species that enter our homes."
Spider mating season normally starts in September, when male spiders venture into homes in search of females. Hine advised: "The kindest thing anyone can do is let them outside. They are only looking for one thing, and that's the lady spider."
How to deter spiders
Specialists speaking to House Beautiful suggested a simple mixture of water and vinegar to deter the arachnids. The magazine stated: "Spiders are sensitive to vinegar's odour and sour taste, making it another brilliant natural deterrent."
To repel spiders from the nooks and crannies of your house, the magazine advised: "Simply spritz a little vinegar and water solution in hidden corners."
Fewer house spiders than decades ago
House spiders are less common than they were 20-30 years ago, as homes have better insulation. Modern central heating systems also make homes less damp and therefore less inviting to house spiders.
Other experts have advised households across the UK to keep their windows closed from 7pm each night over the next four weeks as we reach peak spider season.
