Spider Guide
Spiders are a common sight in homes and gardens across the United Kingdom, playing a vital role in controlling insect populations. While most UK spiders are harmless to humans, some species can pose potential risks through venomous bites. Understanding the habits, behaviours, and characteristics of these eight-legged arachnids is essential for effective pest management.
Whether you're facing a spider infestation or simply seeking to coexist peacefully with these beneficial creatures, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the world of UK spiders effectively.
THE DANGERS
Why we control Spiders
It is crucial that we manage spider populations to prevent infestations getting out of hand.
Some individuals may be allergic to spider venom, leading to adverse reactions and health concerns. They can also create unsightly webs and contribute to a dirty or unkept appearance in indoor spaces.
Incorporating effective spider control measures as part of a comprehensive pest management strategy can help pest control companies safeguard the well-being of their clients and prevent potential issues associated with spider infestations.
Did you know:
The UK has over 650 species of spiders! While most are harmless, only a few can bite humans, and their venom is generally mild.
SPIDER BIOLOGY
TYPES OF SPIDER IN THE UK
Of the hundreds of spider species in the UK, listed below are 3 of the most common spiders.
Cellar Spider: Common in damp, dark areas like basements and cellars.Delicate appearance but can quickly populate a space if left unchecked.
Common House Spider: Known for rapid movements and messy web-building habits. Not harmful to humans but can startle individuals due to their size.
Giant House Spider: One of the largest spiders in the UK, often seen indoors during autumn. Despite their size, their bites are not considered dangerous to humans.
SPIDER APPEARANCES
Common House Spider
- Physical Characteristics: Light to dark brown in colour with distinct chevron markings on their abdomen.
- Size: Adult females can reach up to 12-15mm in body length, while males are slightly smaller.
- Habitat: Often found in corners, crevices, and behind furniture in homes.
Giant House Spider
- Physical Characteristics: Brownish in colour with a hairy body and long spindly legs.
- Size: Adult females can have a leg span of up to 120mm, making them one of the largest spiders in the UK.
- Habitat: Typically found in dark, sheltered areas like basements, sheds, and garages.
Cellar Spider
- Physical Characteristics: Long, thin legs and a small body with pale colouring.
- Size: Adult females can have a leg span of up to 60mm.
- Habitat: Prefers damp, dark environments such as cellars, basements, and crawl spaces.
By recognising the physical characteristics, size, and preferred habitats of these nuisance spider species, homeowners and pest control professionals can accurately identify and implement targeted control measures to manage their populations effectively.
In the United Kingdom, there are no native spider species that are considered deadly.
While some spiders found in the UK, such as the false widow spider (Steatoda nobilis), have venom that can cause discomfort or mild reactions in some individuals, their bites are not life-threatening.
It is important to note that severe or allergic reactions to spider venom are rare, and most spider bites result in minor symptoms that can be managed with basic first aid measures. If you suspect a spider bite or experience unusual symptoms after being bitten, it is advisable to seek medical advice for proper evaluation and treatment.
Did you know:
The raft spider is one of the UK’s largest spiders and can walk on water! It uses surface tension to hunt small fish and aquatic insects in ponds and streams.
MANAGING SPIDERS
PREVENTING SPIDERS
To prevent spiders from entering your home, seal entry points such as cracks and gaps, declutter to eliminate hiding spots, vacuum regularly to remove webs and eggs, maintain outdoor areas by trimming vegetation, use essential oils like peppermint to repel spiders, install screens on windows and doors, and reduce outdoor lighting that attracts insects.
These simple steps can help deter spiders and create a less hospitable environment for them in your living space.
SPIDER MANAGEMENT
As a pest control company, some methods we employ to control spider populations include:
Inspection: Conducting thorough inspections to identify spider species, nesting areas, and entry points into the property.
Exclusion: Sealing off entry points and gaps to prevent spiders from entering the premises.
Sanitation: Removing clutter, webs, and debris that provide hiding spots for spiders.
Chemical Treatments: Applying targeted insecticides or spider-specific treatments in infested areas to eliminate existing populations.
Monitoring: Implementing monitoring systems to track spider activity and assess the effectiveness of control measures.
Education: Providing clients with information on spider prevention strategies and proactive measures to discourage future infestations.
By combining these methods with tailored solutions based on the specific spider species and infestation severity, we aim to effectively manage spider populations and create a pest-free environment for our clients. These simple steps can help deter spiders and create a less hospitable environment for them in your living space.
