Don't Panic! Why Autumn is Spider Season in the UK
- christian5470
- Sep 9
- 3 min read
As the days grow shorter and a crisp chill fills the air, many of us in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and beyond notice an unwelcome increase in our eight-legged housemates. Autumn is spider season, but before you reach for the nearest object to shoo them away, it's important to understand why they're suddenly appearing in greater numbers and what you can do about it.
The Real Reason Spiders Come Indoors
Contrary to popular belief, spiders aren’t looking for warmth indoors to survive the winter. Most of the spiders we see scurrying across our carpets are actually males of a few common species, and they’re on the hunt for a mate. They've lived outdoors all year, but as they reach maturity in late summer and early autumn, their biological imperative is to find a female to reproduce with. And where do the females of some species tend to spend their time? Snugly tucked away in our homes.
The most common culprit is the Giant House Spider (Eratigena atrica). These are the large, fast-moving spiders that often cause the most alarm. Other frequent visitors include the False Widow Spider, which, despite its intimidating appearance and a nasty bite, is far less dangerous than many myths suggest.
Debunking Common Spider Myths
It's easy for spiders to get a bad reputation, but many of the stories we hear are simply not true. One of the most persistent myths is that spiders come up through our drains—this is highly unlikely. Spiders are air-breathing creatures and would drown if they attempted to navigate through a water trap. Another common misconception is that spiders are aggressive. In reality, they are shy creatures that only bite as a last resort in self-defence if they feel trapped.
How to Prevent Spiders from Entering Your Home
While it’s almost impossible to completely spider-proof your property, there are several things you can do to make it a less appealing place for them to settle. The key is to think like a spider and identify their entry points.
Seal Gaps: Check for any cracks or holes in your window frames, door frames, and brickwork. Sealing these with caulk or expanding foam can significantly reduce the number of spiders getting in.
Tidy Up: Spiders love dark, cluttered spaces. Keep your home tidy and declutter areas like basements, attics, and sheds to reduce potential hiding spots.
Manage Outdoor Areas: Keeping your garden tidy and away from the house can also help. Trim back any plants or ivy that are growing up the walls of your home, as these can serve as natural bridges for spiders to get inside.
Or Call the Professionals
While a few spiders are a normal part of autumn, a significant infestation can be a sign of a larger issue and can be distressing for many homeowners. If you've tried the prevention tips and are still dealing with a high volume of spiders, it’s time to call in the experts.
Stratton Pest Control provides a comprehensive range of solutions to help you deal with spider issues safely and effectively. We understand the habits of spiders and can identify the root cause of the problem, ensuring a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix. Autumn is spider season, but don't give in.
For more information on the services we offer, please visit our dedicated spiders page.
If you're a homeowner, tenant, or small business owner in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, North London, Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, Norfolk, or Suffolk, and you need professional help, don't hesitate to get in touch. We're here to help you reclaim your space and enjoy the autumn months pest-free.
To book an inspection or to discuss your needs, please contact us on 01582 800302 or email us for more details.
