As the weather turns cooler and we spend more time indoors, it’s not uncommon to encounter the English house spider. Although they can be unsettling to some, spiders are an important part of our ecosystem and serve an important purpose in controlling insect populations. In this ultimate guide to the English house spider, we’ll bust some myths and learn the facts to help you better understand these fascinating creatures.

Myth 1: All spiders are dangerous

The truth is, while some species of spiders may be venomous, most are harmless to humans. The English house spider, also known as the common house spider, is not dangerous and their venom is not harmful to people. In fact, they’re actually beneficial to have around as they help control other pests such as flies and moths.

Myth 2: Spiders are dirty and carry diseases

Contrary to popular belief, spiders are actually clean creatures. They groom themselves frequently, which helps keep their bodies free of dirt and debris. Additionally, spiders are not known to carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans.

Myth 3: Spiders are aggressive and will attack humans

Most spiders are not aggressive towards humans and will only bite if provoked or threatened. The English house spider, in particular, is known to be shy and will typically retreat if approached.

Myth 4: You should kill spiders on sight

While it’s understandable to want to eliminate spiders in your home, it’s important to remember that they play a valuable role in the environment. Instead of killing them, try to capture them and release them outside. If you’re uncomfortable handling spiders, consider using a humane spider catcher or hiring a pest control professional.

Fact 1: English house spiders are small in size

The English house spider is typically only about half an inch in length, making them relatively small compared to other spider species. They can range in color from brown to grey and have distinctive markings on their abdomen.

Fact 2: English house spiders are commonly found in homes

As their name suggests, the English house spider is a common sight in homes throughout the UK. They prefer dark, damp environments such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Fact 3: English house spiders are not web builders

Unlike many other spider species, the English house spider does not build webs to catch prey. Instead, they hunt for their food, which includes insects such as moths, flies, and small spiders.

Fact 4: English house spiders have a short lifespan

The English house spider typically lives for about a year, with males having a shorter lifespan than females. They reach maturity in the autumn and begin to mate, with females laying eggs in the spring.

In conclusion, the English house spider is a harmless and beneficial creature that plays an important role in controlling pest populations. By debunking myths and learning the facts about these fascinating creatures, we can better appreciate the important role they play in our ecosystem. So the next time you encounter an English house spider in your home, consider capturing and releasing them outside to help maintain a healthy and balanced environment.