As the weather gets colder, you might start noticing more spiders around your home and garden. October is a busy time for UK spiders, particularly as male house spiders begin searching for mates.
They might not be everyone’s favourite visitors, but spiders play an important role in our ecosystems, helping to keep insect populations in check. Here are four species you might spot this autumn!
European Garden Spider
Recognisable by its round abdomen and white cross-shaped markings, the European garden spider is a familiar sight in UK gardens. In autumn, it builds large circular webs between plants, hedges and fences to catch flying insects.
Where to look: Garden plants, hedges and fences.
Giant House Spider
With its brown body and long legs, the giant house spider can be quite a surprise when it runs across your floor. In autumn, males become more active as they search for females. Despite their size, they’re generally shy and prefer to avoid people.
Where to look: Quiet corners, skirting boards, bathrooms and garages.
False Widow
False widows are established across parts of the UK. They’re usually brown and glossy, with a rounded abdomen, and build messy webs in sheltered spots. Bites are uncommon, and they’re generally not aggressive towards people.
Where to look: Window frames, sheds, garages and sheltered corners.
Cupboard Spider
A relative of the false widow, the cupboard spider has a rounded, shiny abdomen and tends to stay hidden in its web. It catches small insects and often goes unnoticed in sheltered parts of the home.
Where to look: Cupboards, behind furniture and around window frames.
Keep an Eye Out This Autumn
Spiders are part of the wildlife living alongside us, even in our homes and gardens. This October, take a closer look at the small creatures sharing our spaces.
Have you spotted any spiders around your home or garden recently? Let us know!