People in Norfolk are finding more large spiders in their homes than ever before - and here is why. 

According to wildlife groups, the amount of larger spiders out and about at this time of the year is common due to their mating habits, with autumn around the time they grow to full maturity. 

During this time, the females are full of eggs which makes them appear much larger and as temperatures cool, the spiders seek warmer spaces - typically inside our homes. 

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Eastern Daily Press: Some spiders are as large as a pint glass rimSome spiders are as large as a pint glass rim (Image: Submitted)

Andrew Dellbridge, a Norwich-based pest control expert with more than 35 years in the field, said: "Basically, the summer has been favourable and suitable for their numbers to increase. 

"As soon as the autumn kicks in we will see the usual large numbers of big spiders coming into our homes to avoid the winter."

Most species of house spiders have chunky brown bodies with long hairy legs, with the males smaller and more slender. 

Pam Campbell-Webster, from Great Yarmouth, said of the spiders: "We have one almost as big as a mouse. 

"We keep putting it outside but it keeps finding its way back in."

Mike Last, from Norwich, added: "I had to wait for a spider to finish using the bathroom before me."

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Eastern Daily Press: Spiders are looking for warmer spaces as the cooler months arriveSpiders are looking for warmer spaces as the cooler months arrive (Image: Hollie Drury)

As well as spiders, Mr Dellbridge also claimed this summer he has dealt with a number of wasp nests that have "chewed" into houses, caused when wasps gnaw through plasterboard and other soft materials and then invade houses in large numbers. 

Are there ways to keep spiders out of your home?

  • If you are unconvinced and can't bear spiders in your home, there are some things you can do to help keep them at bay while keeping them unharmed.
  • Seal windows and doors - DIY sealants are useful to block any little crevices around doors and windows.
  • Keep your house clean - spiders thrive in the damp and the dark, so keeping a clean house might stop them venturing inside.
  • Let more natural light in - keeping blinds open could help keep the creatures out
  • Citrus has historically thought to be a spider repellent. While there is no scientific evidence to this, it is worth a try and a simple spray can be made by mixing a few drops of citrus juice with water.
  • If you spot a spider, use a tumbler and a piece of card to trap it then pick it up and take it outside unharmed.