How to stop spiders coming into homes during mating season

According to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, larger spiders wandering around houses and gardens are typical for this time of year.

For many species the autumn season is the time of year when they’re mature and also when the females are full of eggs, making some spiders much larger.

Wendy Carter, of the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, said: "Indoors, they’ll mostly be house spiders and they’re on the hunt for love.

"House spiders may give you a shock when they suddenly appear in the corner of your eye as they race across your carpet but, as with most of our spiders in the UK, they’re basically harmless. 

"They may appear to be the arachnid equivalent of Usain Bolt but they can’t keep it up for long – they need to take breathers quite regularly."

But an expert has revealed how to prevent spiders from getting in your house.

Peter Murray, a Home and Garden expert from Murray Steel Buildings, has revealed the average UK home could be playing host to over 100 spiders.

As autumn settles in and temperatures drop, spiders are seeking out warm, sheltered spots in homes.

Mr Murray said: "They’re drawn to dark, quiet spaces where they won’t be disturbed.

"You’re most likely to find them in attics, under furniture, behind curtains, and surprisingly, even in your bed covers."

He added this year has seen a particular rise in household spider numbers.

Species such as the common house spider and false widow have become regular visitors indoors.

The top places spiders are likely hiding include in the corners of ceilings and under furniture such as sofas, beds, and armchairs.

Spiders might be creeping about in garages and sheds, behind curtains, around sinks and drains and in bed covers.

Murray added: "Though they may seem creepy, spiders help control pests like flies and other insects.

"However, if you want to keep their numbers down, regular cleaning, reducing clutter, and sealing up cracks around windows and doors will help."