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Spiders big and small will soon be invading your home as the weather warms. Almost one in five Britons suffer from arachnophobia and given that there are more than 650 different species of

spiders in the UK, all of which can bite, it is unsurprising that some people struggle with the spider invasion which happens from September to October each year. So how can you protect your

home from arachnids this spider season? WHEN DO SPIDERS COME INDOORS? Each year, eight-legged creatures begin to invade your home as they look for a mate or escape the weather outside.

Professor Adam Hart, an entomologist at the University of Gloucestershire, has researched the seasonal spider cycle. He says around 80 percent of the spider’s people catch a glimpse of

scuttling around their homes are males who are on the hunt for mates and females indoors. Professor Hart said: “It is to do with the time of the year. It is the mating season for the

spiders.” He added: “The females can be seen on webs in garages and windowsills, while the males wander around looking for chances to mate. “And of course our houses are nice places for them

to come and do that.” David Cross, head of the technical training academy at Rentokil Pest Control, said: “Spiders are beneficial to our environment, and most species that are found in the

UK are not dangerous and are not considered pests. “However, any animal that is found where it’s not wanted can be seen as a pest.” HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOUSE FROM SPIDERS? Most spiders are

not harmful to human beings. While all species of spiders can bite, often their fangs are too small to pierce human skin, so no damage is inflicted. Luckily out of the 650 spider species in

the UK, there are only 12 of these species which can actually cause harm to a human being. Mr Cross said the top five ways to keep spiders out of your home are: 1. VACUUM REGULARLY – HIGH

AND LOW Ensure that you vacuum thoroughly, including sheltered spots, such as beneath worktops and behind cupboards and sofas. 2. REMOVE NOTICEABLE WEBS Remove spider webs regularly and be

sure to check the corners of the ceiling, picture frames and mirrors. 3. FILL GAPS Wherever possible, make sure that you fill in the gaps between walls, pipework and under the doors which

can help to deter entry. 4. REMOVE SHELTERING SITES Spiders seek out areas where they can tuck themselves away from such as in your firewood piles, garden bags and any compost heaps, remove

these to eliminate the problem. 5. DETER ALL INSECTS The best way to do avoid all insects is to control your lighting. Insects are attracted to light, especially flies and moths, which are

ideal prey for spiders.