The wasp spider, one of the UK's largest spider species, has been sighted in the West Midlands, marking a move of more than 100 miles from its usual southern England habitat. The species, known for its distinctive yellow, black, and white stripes, has been increasingly recorded further north in recent years.
Worcestershire Wildlife Trust has confirmed recent sightings in Worcestershire, alongside reports from Herefordshire and Warwickshire. Wendy Carter from the trust noted that while the spiders can appear large, they are not harmful to humans.
Female wasp spiders can reach approximately 2cm in body length, with males being significantly smaller at about 0.5cm, according to the British Arachnological Society. They are often found in long grass and other tall vegetation.
Warmer temperatures and milder winters are believed to be contributing to the spider's expansion into new areas. Wasp spiders require at least three months of warm weather and a mild winter to breed successfully.
Ms Carter stated that all spiders are venomous for catching prey, but only a few can pierce human skin, and none of these have venom that can harm humans. Anyone who sees a wasp spider in Worcestershire is encouraged to photograph it and inform the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.