Britain is likely to see more and potentially bigger spiders entering homes this autumn, according to entomologist Dee Patel, 34, who says the summer's heatwaves have created ideal conditions for the eight-legged creatures to thrive.
Patel explained that the increasingly sweltering temperatures have triggered a surge in insects such as mosquitoes, moths, and bluebottle flies. This rise in prey provides a greater food supply for spiders, allowing them to grow larger and begin their season earlier.
Earlier start to spider season
Peak season for Giant House Spiders typically falls in October, but Patel says this year it has "started earlier." The combination of weather conditions and abundant food has shifted spiders' annual cycles.
"When they have food readily available, seasons start earlier. Peak is usually October but we've noticed it's started earlier," Patel said. "Their exo-thermic cycle is sped up, so you get more generation of spiders quicker than usual. Which means more spiders in general and potentially bigger because of the food sources available."
Harmless but unwelcome
Despite their size - Giant House Spiders have a leg span of up to 10cm and are among the fastest invertebrates - Patel stressed they are largely harmless and "terrified" of humans.
"They're not interested in us at all. The female house spiders are situated within our homes - it's mainly this time of year when males are coming in looking for a partner," Patel explained. "The reason they run so fast is mainly because they're terrified of us. But they are harmless to us. They don't carry bacteria or diseases - and they only ever bite if you were to pressure them or corner them with your bare hands."
Deterrents and benefits
For those who prefer not to share their homes with spiders, Patel suggests using peppermint oil or playing loud music to deter them. "Peppermint oil spray can stop them - spiders taste things using their feet and almost all insects hate the taste and smell of peppermint," he said.
Patel also highlighted the ecological importance of spiders: "If we were to get rid of the spiders and insects from this world within three years, nature would die. Humankind could die as a result of that." He added that through autumn, spiders will be "living longer, maybe all the way to Christmas as the temperatures are just right for them."
