SPIDERS

Some of the most common spiders in the UK include; common house spider, labyrinth spider, false widow spider, money spider and cellar spiders (also known as daddy longlegs).

Spiders aren’t actually insects; they’re part of a group called arachnids, which all have eight legs, two body segments and an ability to strike fear into the hearts of many! There are approximately 650 species of spiders in the UK, varying in size from 2.5mm to 140mm. They come in a muted rainbow of colours, from various shades of brown, reddish-brown, green, yellow, beige and black, with some species prettily patterned.

Keen to avoid humans, spiders can be difficult to spot, although you might spy one scuttling across your walls or floor. The most obvious sign to look out for is spider webs in dark, secluded areas of your home, such as attics, corners, cupboards and storage boxes. You should also be extra vigilant as autumn approaches, as some spiders migrate from outside to inside to hibernate, often bringing an egg sac with them! These are often fixed to a surface, hidden in the web or carried by the female.

As most spiders are harmless, the best advice is to simply leave them alone – however, for many people with a fear of spiders, this isn’t an option! And, despite not being dangerous, spiders can be a nuisance, especially if they multiply. Many homeowners would prefer to get rid of spiders, and a professional pest controller can provide the peace of mind that your spider infestation has been eliminated, efficiently and effectively. Armed with the appropriate equipment, specialist insecticides and skills, pest controllers offer a range of suitable solutions for treatments.