living in france
Are spiders currently ‘invading’ French homes?
The arrival of autumn means larger species are more commonly spotted
A series of social media posts in recent weeks suggest large spiders have been ‘invading’ French homes.
Spotting spiders creeping around your home can be alarming - however they were likely already in your house the whole time.
The arrival of autumn means larger species such as the giant house spider (Eratigena atrica) and the so-called 'Nosferatu’ or ‘Vampire’ spider (Zoropsis spinimana) are becoming more frequently seen in kitchens, bathrooms and living rooms.
This is completely normal. Spiders found in homes are nocturnal hunters, and the shorter days of autumn increase the chance of crossing paths with males that have reached adulthood at this time in search of females.
Some experts say warm summers with abundant insect populations can produce bigger spiders. However, extended heatwaves and periods of drought tend to reduce insect and spider populations - particularly those found outdoors.
Some 1,710 different species of spider can be found in France, divided into 48 families; the smallest of these measure barely 1mm (Salticidae), while the largest can reach up to 17cm (Eratigena duellica), according to forest wildlife inventory L’Observatoire de la Biodiversité des Forêts.
How to minimise encounters
Although spiders typically hide away in small cracks and dark holes, you can take action to help minimise the number of insects in your home by regularly cleaning behind furniture and in cellars.
Properly sealing windows, door frames and any other entries into your home can help to limit access.
Refrain from using outdoor lighting at night as this can attract insects and prey to building facades.
Some social media reports recommend using chestnuts/conkers to ward off spiders, however this method is yet to be proven effective.
Ecological importance
While spiders can be unpleasant, they do play a major role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by preying on smaller insects.
They are fundamentally not interested in humans and bites are rare - they generally only occur after direct handling and, even then, effects are usually mild.
Spiders are handy to have around as they feed on flies, mosquitoes and other household pests.
Removing them gently to a garage or garden is an option, but crushing them deprives your home of an effective natural pest controller.
