Suffer from Arachnophobia? Welcome to Spider Season!

I was sat in my in-laws' garden the other day, basking in the rare UK sunshine, vaguely tuning in as another lecture about [insert topic] (that was intentional) wafted over from across the patio. My gaze, however, was fixed not on the familial wisdom being imparted but rather on the dense foliage of her rosemary bush and bay leaf tree. Suddenly, my casual observation turned into a startled exclamation. "Fuck me!", I blurted out—and let’s be honest, we do drop the occasional F-bomb around here when warranted—"Look at the size of that spider!"

My initial shock escalated to horror as I realised it wasn't just one gargantuan spider but an entire metropolis of them, having spun their silky skyscrapers across the bushes, paths, and every conceivable nook they could anchor their thread. It looked like a scene straight out of a horror flick, these arachnids monstrously enlarged and feasting on the plethora of insects buzzing through the air.

My in-law, unperturbed, nonchalantly remarked, "Yeah, lucky I'm not arachnophobic, but it is spider season, after all." I mustered the courage to carefully navigate this mini-city, camera in hand, capturing their grim feasts, and it got me thinking—let’s chat about spider season.

When Does Spider Season Occur?

Spider season typically kicks into high gear around early September and can stretch into October. This is when spiders are most visible as they venture inside to find a mate. Yes, those creepy crawlies are not only bigger but also on the lookout for love in your living quarters!

Why Are They Coming Inside?

Contrary to the chilling thought that they are out to get us, spiders come indoors primarily for two reasons: shelter and to reproduce. As the air turns crisp, these cold-blooded insects seek out the warmth of our homes to continue their life cycle.

What Spiders Might You See?

In the UK, some common houseguests include the formidable house spider and the daddy longlegs. While they might look fearsome, these spiders are generally harmless and can actually help control pests in your home by eating flies and other small insects.

Tips for Arachnophobes

If you're among the many who suffer from arachnophobia, here are a few tips to keep your nerves in check during spider season:

Seal Cracks: Ensure windows and doors have tight-fitting screens and seals. Spiders can squeeze through very small spaces.

Limit Outdoor Lighting: Lights can attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. Use blinds or curtains to block indoor lights from shining through to the outdoors.

Essential Oils: Some believe that spiders dislike the scent of eucalyptus, tea tree, or peppermint oil. A few drops in corners might help deter them.

Stay Tidy: Reducing clutter reduces hiding spots for spiders. Regular vacuuming can help remove spiders and discourage others from moving in.

Professional Help: If all else fails, or if you find your anxiety significantly affected, consider contacting a pest control professional to discuss safe and effective treatment options.

So, while the sight of spiders might send shivers down your spine, remember they're mostly harmless and can even be beneficial. With a few precautions, you can manage your arachnophobia and maybe even appreciate our eight-legged friends from a safe distance. But maybe, just maybe, try not to swear too loudly about our little silk-spinning pals in front of your in-laws, even if it is spider season.

Picture of ‘Dave’ one of the spiders that lives in my in-laws garden.