This spider had to leave
Normally we don’t bother doing anything about the spiders we find in our house.
Let’s face it none of the UK’s c.650 native species of spider are a threat to humans. Okay, a few of the larger ones (around 12 species) have fangs that are actually strong enough to pierce human skin. Those few species won’t bite us by choice. If you do pick up a spider then, as with any living creature, remember it is delicate and should be handled with respect and care.
The occasional spiders found in some imported fruits can include species that are more seriously venomous. If you find spiders in such circumstances it’s always best to leave it alone and seek advice. A photo to the Natural History Museum’s Identification and Advisory Service is a good idea. You can email them at bug@nhm.ac.uk
No sleep!
Back to our encounter on 1st September 2024 at 22.34, i.e. bedtime! When else do these things happen?
I was happily just about to switch off the light when Avril enquired “what’s that on the curtain?” Turns out it was the biggest spider I remember having ever seen. That realisation guaranteed no sleep until the visitor had been directed outside so a large empty jam jar was sought. This spider had to leave.
Of course, there was no way it was going to be liberated without first having its photo taken. A few minutes later and it was safely captured on the camera and safely captured in the jar and shown the door.
Lights out, at last!
Next morning we were able to use the photos to get a good idea of the size of the spider from the pattern on the curtain. This put its body length at around 15mm and its diagonal leg spread at over 70mm.
We could also tell it was a male from the pedipalps. These are the short appendages that look like an additional pair of legs at the front of the spider’s body. Here’s a Wikipedia link that helps explain their form and function.
Given the size of this spider and the general shape of and pattern on its body we can be certain it was a ‘House Spider’ one of the Tegenaria / Eratigena species. Possibly Tegenaria gigantea / Eratigena duellica.
Sleep well.
D and A Haines