Giant spiders the ‘size of a human hand’ have record breeding year as 10,000 females spread across UK
Spiders across Britain are expected to reach record numbers this autumn
Experts have warned the UK is facing a bumper crop of giant spiders this autumn as the creatures enjoy a record breeding season.
The warm summer has provided the perfect conditions for the eight-legged predators, with experts predicting there will be up to 10,000 female spiders per square kilometre in some areas.
That's double the number seen last year, and the highest number on record. The spiders, which can grow to the size of a human hand, are expected to be particularly active in the south of England, where the weather has been warmest.
Experts say the spiders are not dangerous to humans, but they can be a nuisance. They often build their webs in doorways and windows, and they can sometimes bite if they are disturbed.
If you're worried about spiders, there are a few things you can do to keep them out of your home. Seal up any cracks or holes in your walls and windows, and keep your home clean and tidy. You can also try using a spider repellent spray.
If you do find a spider in your home, don't panic. Simply catch it in a glass and release it outside.
Here are some of the most common types of spiders found in the UK:
- House spider: The most common type of spider in the UK, the house spider is found in a variety of habitats, including homes, gardens, and sheds. They are typically brown or grey in colour, and they have a distinctive white stripe on their backs.
- Garden spider: Garden spiders are large, web-spinning spiders that are often found in gardens and fields. They are typically yellow or green in colour, and they have a distinctive web that is often decorated with dew drops.
- False widow spider: False widow spiders are small, black spiders that are often mistaken for black widows. They are not as dangerous as black widows, but they can still bite if they are disturbed.
- Daddy longlegs: Daddy longlegs are long, thin spiders that are often found in gardens and fields. They are not actually spiders, but they are related to spiders.
If you're worried about spiders, there are a few things you can do to keep them out of your home:
- Seal up any cracks or holes in your walls and windows.
- Keep your home clean and tidy.
- Use a spider repellent spray.
If you do find a spider in your home, don't panic. Simply catch it in a glass and release it outside.
