Are There Big Spiders in London?

By Michael Ferguson

London is a bustling city with a rich history and culture. It is home to millions of people, and like any other city, it has its fair share of wildlife. One question that many people have is whether or not there are big spiders in London.

Well, the answer is yes! There are indeed big spiders in London.

In fact, the most common species of spider found in London is the house spider (Tegenaria domestica), which can grow up to 12mm in length. While this may not seem very large compared to some other species of spiders around the world, it can still be alarming for anyone who suffers from arachnophobia.

House spiders are usually found inside homes and buildings, and they tend to be more active during the autumn months when they are seeking a mate. They are not venomous and do not pose a threat to humans. However, their presence can still be unnerving for some people.

Apart from house spiders, there are other species of spiders that can be found in London as well. The zebra spider (Salticus scenicus) is a common jumping spider that can be found on walls and fences throughout the city. These spiders are much smaller than house spiders but can move very quickly and jump impressive distances.

Another species of spider that can be found in London is the daddy longlegs spider (Pholcus phalangioides). These spiders have long thin legs and a small body and are common in homes throughout the city. Like house spiders, they are also harmless to humans.

If you’re planning on visiting or living in London and have a fear of spiders, don’t worry! While there may be some larger species around the world, the spiders found in London are generally harmless and only want to go about their business without bothering anyone.

In conclusion, yes – there are big spiders in London! But they are not venomous and do not pose a threat to humans.

Understanding more about the different species of spiders and their behaviors can help to ease any fears or concerns. So, the next time you see a spider in your London home, try not to panic – it’s just one of the many fascinating creatures that call this city home.

Here are some tips for dealing with spiders in your home:

  • Try not to leave clutter around your home as this can attract spiders.
  • Seal up any cracks or gaps in windows and doors to prevent spiders from entering your home.
  • Keep your home clean and tidy, as this will reduce the likelihood of spiders setting up camp.
  • If you do find a spider in your home, try to gently capture it using a cup and piece of paper and release it outside.

Remember – spiders are an important part of the ecosystem, and they play an important role in controlling the population of other insects. So, while they may be scary to some people, it’s important to remember that they are just another fascinating creature that we share our world with.