A TERRIFYING giant wasp spider that can camouflage itself has been discovered in the UK.
The rare spider with a wasp-like body has been found in a garden in Norfolk – and they’re slowly spreading across the nation.
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The creepy crawly was spotted by Craig Calvin and his two children, Ralph and Hugo, in their garden last week.
The wasp spider cunningly disguises itself as its namesake and is easily recognisable due to its striped abdomen and legs.
With its vivid black and yellow stripes and dramatic zigzag web, it’s been dubbed the “great mimic” by the Wildlife Trust.
The species was once a rarity in the UK but now they’re being spotted more frequently across the country.
Mr Calvin said: “I’d never seen one before – it’s quite large and looks completely out of place on the Norfolk Broads.
“It’s such a beautiful creature. A perfect example of how wildlife is changing right on our doorsteps.”
One of the biggest in Britain
Although it has the external characteristics of one, the spider is simply a mimic of a wasp.
It’s the female spiders who have the yellow, black and white stripes just like the common wasp and it’s legs are stripy too.
The males are smaller and pale brown.
They build their webs in grassland and heathland and attach their silk egg-sacs to the grasses.
Wasp spiders are completely harmless to humans and are a fascinating addition to the UK’s biodiversity.
They are originally native to southern Europe and can be found in southern England but they’re slowly spreading northwards too.
The wasp spider measures as one of the six biggest spider species in Britain.
Spider season approaches
Spider season occurs from August to October, with wetter conditions often enticing them into homes, the Royal Meteorological Society reports.
Among its spider prevention tips are keeping windows shut at night. clearing any clutter that they may like to hide in and vacuuming regularly.
The website also praised cats and dogs as great helpers in terminating the critters.
And B&Q has the perfect solution to keep your house creepy crawly free for just £7.99.
Beyond getting rid of spiders, the spray also helps to prevent the build-up of cobwebs.
You can also keep spiders out the house by using a simple kitchen staple.
Earlier this year, The Sun revealed that white vinegar can often do the job.
Peppermint oil is also a great way to keep critters out.
Keep pests out all summer
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here’s what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps – hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths – acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants – herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes – plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
