Did you know that there are there are over 650 different species of spiders in the UK?

Despite the fact that all of them bite we are happy to say that only 12 of these species have enough venom that could cause you harm.

Love them or loathe them the UK is seeing an increase in it spider population and they are not just growing in numbers they are increasing in size too!

Why Do We See So Many Spiders?

Mid-September to mid-October is most common period for spiders entering our homes and following our wash out wet summer their numbers have vastly increased!

The UK‘s biggest arachnid, which is also one of the largest in Europe is the Eratigena atrica better known as Giant house spider. It is one of the quickest spiders in the world and can run at nearly TWO feet per second! Despite the name, house spiders more commonly live in sheds and gardens!

Growing up to 12cm in length their primary reason for invading our space is to find a dry place to mate.

Millions of giant female house spiders look for a spot to lay their eggs and rarely leave their nests other than to feed. The females can lay hundreds of eggs and in each egg sac there can be up to 60 young. As autumn arrives it is mature male house spiders that begin to roam start search of mates.

Experts have predicted that the number of false widow spiders or Steatoda nobilis – the most venomous species in the UK will also increase. The false widow spider has been in Britain for the past 130 years but due to a recent increase and spates of people being bitten they are more widely recognised.

Should We Really Fear Spiders?

Experts say the species is not usually aggressive towards humans and that being bitten is rare with many comparing their bites to a bee sting. The symptoms of a bite vary from feelings of numbness, severe swelling and discomfort, to various levels of burning or chest pains. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount of venom that was injected.

So don’t panic while yes there is potential for spiders to cause allergic reaction in some individual’s - cases are still highly rare.

Spiders can be good house guests too by preying on bacteria-spreading flies! If you are still not a fan then you could try a few suggested natural spider repellents!

Spiders are not fans of the smell of citrus, so try using lemon peel around door and window frames or use peppermint oil spiders are also not fans of essential oils which is ironic considering the amount of time they spend in the bath! If all else fails there is always the conker method favoured by all old wives out there!