Giant House Spiders

Millions of three-inch spiders, the biggest ever recorded in Britain, are on the rampage, invading houses across the country.

16:49 23 September 2015

The warm, wet summer has provided a perfect condition for Giant House Spider to grow to record sizes. Experts warn that the three-inches beasts that are now invading houses across the country, could breed under sofas, beds, and behind toilets as mating season has arrived.

 

The species, Eratigena atrica, is one of the quickest spiders in the world and can run at nearly two feet per second. It takes two years for them to mature and can survive for months without food or water. Meanwhile, females produce up to 10 sacs that contain 40 to 60 eggs.

 

Professor Adam Hart from the University of Gloucester said: “Mid-September through to mid-October is the height of ‘spider season’.

 

“We've had another good summer which means we are in for another good year for large spiders.

 

"This species is diverse and common, and as a predator they are crucial in maintaining the biodiversity of our gardens, woodlands, field margins, hedges - in fact pretty much everywhere."