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Hospital admissions resulting from spider bites in England have more than doubled over the past decade, according to data obtained by the Press Association through a freedom of information request. NHS statistics reveal that in 2025, there were 100 hospital visits linked to spider bites, whereas in 2015, the recorded cases numbered just 47. This rising trend has raised interest among experts, who suggest the increase may be due to the spread of the noble false widow spider, considered by some to be the most dangerous spider species breeding in Britain.
The noble false widow spider, scientifically known as Steatoda nobilis, originates from Madeira and the Canary Islands, with its presence first recorded in southern England back in 1879. These spiders are usually identified by their distinctive pale markings, often described as resembling a skull. Their webs appear as tangled threads suspended above the ground, and they have a preference for habitats close to human dwellings, such as kitchens and conservatories. Adult spiders typically measure between 7 and 14 millimeters in length. Clive Hambler, a lecturer in biological and human sciences at the University of Oxford, explained that severe spider bite incidents were rare in Britain around 50 years ago but have risen in parallel with the growing population of this species, especially in southern regions.
Hospital data from recent years show fluctuations in spider bite admissions, with 43 recorded in 2021, increasing sharply to 95 in 2022, and then stabilizing near 90 in both 2023 and 2024. The most recent figure from last year counts 100 admissions, with the majority—73 cases—coming through accident and emergency departments. While multiple factors could contribute to the rise, including greater awareness among healthcare professionals and a larger population overall, Dr Michel Dugon, a zoologist at the University of Galway, highlighted the significant expansion of the noble false widow population as the most apparent cause. He also noted that public attention, fueled by media reports about these spiders, may lead to more people seeking medical advice for suspected bites even when other causes could be responsible.
Regarding symptoms, spider bites typically cause small puncture wounds that may result in pain, redness, and swelling. Standard advice includes applying a cold compress wrapped in cloth for at least 20 minutes to reduce swelling, keeping the affected area elevated if possible, and using pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if discomfort persists. Professor David Lalloo from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine emphasized that bites from false widow spiders are not dangerous, although they can cause mild illness for about a day. Buglife, an insect conservation charity, explains that the spider’s venom can induce localized pain and minor swelling, with occasional nausea in extreme reactions. Contrary to some concerns, the charity states there are no verified cases of death, coma, or permanent injury resulting from these bites. They further clarify that any gangrene-like infections linked to bites are due to bacterial infections from external contamination, not the spider itself.
Buglife also stresses that female noble false widow spiders are generally slow-moving and non-aggressive, contrary to popular belief. The spiders do not attack people aggressively, nor do they jump or run at humans. Additionally, most British spiders are unable to bite through human skin because their fangs are too small or weak. Handling numerous large spiders found in homes or gardens usually does not result in bites. Occasionally, venomous spiders might be accidentally imported into the UK through produce or goods, and caution is advised when encountering spiders in grocery areas of shops
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