Embrace Spider Season: Experts Say There's No Need to Fear Our Eight-Legged Neighbors

As summer transitions into autumn, households across East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire are bracing for what many refer to as "spider season." This time of year, residents are likely to encounter more of the eight-legged creatures, prompting a mix of fascination and fear. For some, the sight of a spider can send them into a panic, as was evident from messages sent to Look North viewers sharing their recent encounters. However, expert Dr. Tim Cockerill, a Hull-born entomologist and broadcaster, assures us that there is little reason to fear these creatures. Contrary to popular belief, he emphasizes that spiders in the UK are "only dangerous if you happen to be a fly or another small insect." The phenomenon of increased spider sightings during late summer can be attributed to the fact that adult male spiders are venturing out in search of mates. "Most people think it's because spiders are coming in and invading our homes, but this is almost certainly not the case," Dr. Cockerill explains. "Almost all of the spiders that we see in our homes at this time of year have been there all-year-round, hiding in places like the cupboards under the stairs or under the sofa." The fear of spiders, or arachnophobia, is an intriguing topic that Dr. Cockerill delves into. He notes that babies are not born with this fear, suggesting it is a learned behavior, often passed down from family members. This psychological quirk, he believes, can be addressed through understanding and exposure. While some viewers like Tracey from Boston find spiders tolerable enough to handle, others are not as brave. Lee, who found a spider in his bath, named it Shadow and carefully relocated it outside, stating, "If you want to live and thrive, let the spider run alive." For those less inclined to pick up spiders, Dr. Cockerill recommends a simple technique: using a glass and a piece of card to safely transport the spider outside, where it can continue its life in the garden. Dr. Cockerill also highlights the ecological benefits of spiders in our homes, particularly cellar spiders—commonly referred to as daddy long-legs—who thrive in the warmth of indoor environments. "I prefer just to leave them in the corner of the room where they do a good job eating all the flies and mosquitoes," he said. While some may resort to old wives' tales to repel spiders, such as placing conkers around the house, Dr. Cockerill dismisses these beliefs. "There's nothing behind it—it's just an old wives' tale," he asserts. In conclusion, Dr. Cockerill's lifelong experience with spiders has led him to a reassuring truth: "There's nothing to worry about when it comes to spiders. They're just a fascinating part of our native wildlife." As spider season approaches, perhaps it’s time for us to confront our fears and appreciate these creatures for the role they play in our ecosystem.