Brits warned spiders are invading UK homes earlier than usual - expert reveals how to keep them out
Thousands of spiders are set to invade UK homes in the coming days.
Spider season usually takes place in late September, but due to the unusually warm weather, the eight-legged critters are mating earlier this year.
During this period, male spiders creep indoors in search for a female mate.
As though that wasn't terrifying enough, male spiders can reach up to 10cm across the leg span, which is, remarkably, the same size as a tennis ball.
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"Warmer summers are accelerating spider breeding cycles, which means male spiders are becoming active and starting their search for mates earlier than the traditional late September peak," Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management, explains.
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"We have seen spider season begin noticeably earlier over the last few years. The longer warm periods give spiders more time to develop and reach maturity before autumn, so the invasion of homes is starting sooner and lasting longer than people are used to."
But this year, Brits are fighting back after spotting a 'life-saving' spider-catcher on Amazon, that helps you evict the creepy crawlies while keeping a safe distance.
How to stop spiders coming into your home
If you're terrified of the eight-legged beasts, then a spider-catching gadget is a great way to humanly capture the insects without anyone getting hurt.
One of the most popular options is a £9.99 spider catcher from Amazon; with thousands of rave reviews, it's proven a hit with arachnophobes.
One shopper said: "Absolutely brilliant! I have extreme arachnophobia and did not move out of my parents' for a loooong time, one of the reasons being - having to deal with spiders on my own. You probably just came here to decide whether to buy it or not - I will tell you now: BUY IT RIGHT THIS SECOND."
Another customer wrote, "I can now sleep in peace knowing spiders are not going to drop off the ceiling onto me!!! Before I go to bed, I clear the room. I do not want to hurt them but do not wish to sleep with them."
A third added: "I don’t want to kill them, but I don't want them in the room with me! This is the perfect solution - I’d like it a bit longer if I’m honest but I’m so proud of myself that I’ve managed to evict several huge spiders myself using this!"
Niftii Spider Catcher, £9.99 on Amazon
Amazon
So how does it work? All you need to do is squeeze the trigger to open the catcher, place it over the spider, and release the trigger to capture the insect. Then, all you need to do is release the spider far away from your house.
It can also be used to capture and remove spiders, moths, and flies. Just beware of the plastic spider hiding in the Amazon parcel.
If you don't want to wait for the spiders to get cosy at yours, pest control expert Mosh Latifi recommends sealing any gaps around window frames, door frames and where cables enter the property.
"Spiders can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces so even hairline cracks are worth addressing," he explains. "Peppermint oil is the most effective natural deterrent available. Spiders have taste receptors on their feet and the menthol compounds are deeply unpleasant to them.
"Spray a diluted solution along skirting boards, window sills and door frames now, in early September, before numbers peak. White vinegar wiped along the same surfaces has a similar effect."
He also recommends keeping on top of other insects in your home, as flies and moths can attract spiders.
Danielle Fowler