It's not your imagination — there really are more big, fuzzy brown spiders in your house in the fall.
But don't let them scare you. They are harmless.
They're called wolf spiders, and every autumn they seek warmth while they search for mates. While you might not like the uninvited guests, these spiders are actually doing some good.
Despite its daunting appearance (some varieties of wolf spider can reach a startling two inches in length), the wolf spider is mostly harmless to humans, according to Healthline. These shy, non-aggressive arachnids are more likely to run and hide than fight. Since their venom is not toxic to humans, a rare wolf spider bite is mildly itchy at worst.
Wolf spiders do not spin webs and instead hide during the day and emerge at night to feast on other household pests — any bug will do.
Most wolf spiders sneak in through tiny cracks around windows and doors, so check for openings and caulk these entrances as needed. Spray spider-friendly areas, like potential points of entry and hiding spots, with a mixture of water and peppermint or citrus oil to repel them. Wolf spiders will also hang out wherever they can find bugs, such as porches where lights attract other tiny critters. Turn the light off at night and seal and spray the area to encourage wolf spiders to choose another hunting ground.
If you find a wolf spider in your home and don't want to become roommates, try not to kill it, if possible. Simply trap it under a glass, slide a piece of stiff paper underneath and escort it back outside — no touching involved. Even if you didn't invite it inside, you're both on the same team in a never-ending battle against less desirable household pests.
If you're unsure whether an unwelcome spider is a harmless wolf spider or a brown recluse, a quick body check will tell you. Brown recluse spiders are smooth and hairless with a violin-shaped pattern on their bodies, while wolf spiders carry a visible coating of fuzz.
