Overview

• Spider season has kicked off weeks earlier than normal, with sightings reported across UK households since June and July
• Male spiders are on the move indoors searching for mates while females stay hidden in sheltered spots
• Homeowners are advised to block gaps around windows, doors and pipes to prevent spiders from entering
• Common repellents such as chalk, lavender, mint and eucalyptus can deter roaming spiders without toxic chemicals
• Entomologists stress UK spider species pose no threat to humans, act as natural pest controllers and that arachnophobia is largely psychological