Invertebrates
Giant House Spider
Eratigena atrica
On a September evening, a giant house spider stands motionless at the bottom of a bath, long legs splayed, unable to scale the smooth white sides.
Overview
The giant house spider, Eratigena atrica, is a Not Evaluated spider of sheds, outbuildings, walls, and hedges across Europe. Its large size, funnel webs, and autumn wandering make it one of the most familiar and most exaggerated spiders of European homes.
A spider that goes looking for a mate
The spiders people find indoors in autumn are usually males, which leave their webs to search for females and often end up in the wrong place.
Status
Not Evaluated globally, though widespread and common.
Giant House Spider: common questions
Why do giant house spiders appear in baths?
In autumn, the males wander in search of females and sometimes fall into baths and sinks, from which the smooth sides prevent escape.
Is the giant house spider dangerous?
No, it is not dangerous to people, though it may bite if it is trapped or handled roughly.
What kind of web does it make?
It weaves a flat sheet of silk with a funnel-shaped retreat at one side, where it waits for prey.
Where is the giant house spider found?
It lives in sheds, outbuildings, walls, and hedges across Europe.