Every March a wave of calls comes in about spiders 'appearing out of nowhere'. They were always there. What changes in autumn is behaviour: mature males abandon their webs and burrows to search for mates, and their search takes them straight through garages, laundries and living rooms.
Who's moving in autumn
- Huntsman — large, fast, harmless; moves indoors as nights cool, often behind curtains and sun visors.
- Funnel-web males — wander after humid rain and end up in pools, garages and laundries. Medically dangerous; never handle one.
- Redbacks — remain active in sheltered dry spots and continue producing egg sacs into autumn.
- Orb weavers — build large overnight webs across paths and doorways, then take them down at dawn.
Why an autumn treatment is worth it
A residual barrier applied to eaves, window frames, fence lines, weep holes and entry points intercepts spiders as they move. Combined with de-webbing, it removes both the existing population and the egg sacs that would produce next season's.
Treating in March and April also means fewer spiders overwintering in the structure, which flattens the spring spike.
Simple prevention at home
- Seal gaps under external doors and repair damaged flyscreens.
- Reduce clutter in garages, sheds and under decks.
- Store shoes and gloves indoors, and check them before use.
- Use warm-toned outdoor lighting to attract fewer insects.
- Keep pool covers and outdoor furniture clear and inspected.
Want it handled properly?
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Common questions
Why do I see more spiders indoors in autumn?+
Mature males leave their webs and burrows to search for mates, so they cross paths with people far more often. The overall population has not suddenly grown.
Does a spider treatment stop funnel-webs?+
A residual barrier reduces wandering funnel-webs that cross treated surfaces, and we combine it with harbourage reduction around rockeries and garden beds. Never handle a funnel-web.
How often should spider treatments be repeated?+
Once a year suits most Sydney homes. Properties backing onto bushland or with heavy landscaping often do better with a spring and autumn schedule.