Are you seeing spiders in the pool? Here’s why.

During the summer, spiders have become more common in Spain. They are seen crawling up into swimming pools and even inside homes. Experts assure the public that there is nothing to worry about when they see a large spider in the pool or on the patio. This uptick in spider sightings happens every year during July and August, when male Amblyocarenum walckenaeri, known commonly as wafer trapdoor spiders and Macrothele calpeiana aka Andalucían funnel web spider, emerge in search of a mate.

Spiders are out in the open during their mating season.

Summer is the busy and brief mating season for both male Funnel Web spiders and Wafer Trapdoor Spiders. Males are drawn by pheromones from females. They leave their burrows or webs and travel extremely far in search of a partner. The spiders have been seen in homes, on patios and even falling into swimming pools.

Swimming pools are a dangerous place for males to fall into.

Lost, Not Dangerous

The spiders do not pose a threat to humans, despite their large size and unusual appearance. The spiders aren’t aggressive, despite the fact that some males will rear up their legs. This is a protective display, and is their way to show they don’t want any trouble. They only bite when provoked. They are not aggressive despite some males rearing up on their hind legs, this is a defensive display and is their way of communicating they don’t want trouble. They will only bite if seriously provoked. The venom of the snake is not harmful to healthThey are only interested in finding a partner, not in causing harm to humans or invading houses.

The spiders’ increased visibility is only temporary. As soon as the spider mating season ends sightings of spiders dramatically decrease.

What you can do to help

• Relocate the animals safely: When you see a spider at home, place a container or glass on top of it. Slide a piece card under the glass and then release it in a safe area.
• Pool checks: Check your pool every day during the summer. Use a container or net to gently remove the spider if you see one.
• Offer escape options: Spiders and other small animals can be helped to climb out of pools by floating objects or ramps.
• Stay calm Remember that these spiders do not attack despite the appearance. They are just passing through during their mating journey.

The appearance of spiders in pools and around homes during the summer is a natural phenomenon related to their mating behavior. These spiders are neither dangerous nor are they trying to intrude into homes. They are simply following their biological instincts. Understanding their behaviour will help homeowners avoid unnecessary worries and assist these important creatures in completing their life cycle. (Males only live for a maximum of one year).