The great fox-spider likes warmer climates and is more common on the European mainland, particularly on coastal sand dunes in Holland and Denmark.

What to look for: This species can be confused with many other UK species. Their body is dark brown, with variable patterns on their abdomen. Usually cream and dark brown marks that can sometimes resemble a skull. They aren't bigger, and there aren't really more of them. What we can say is that because of the weather and our windows and doors remaining open, there are more observations of some of the larger species that enter our homes,' says Hine. The central piece of the book is, of course, the species accounts. They are first class and the attention to detail is amazing. Somehow squeezed into each account, yet without appearing cramped, is information on scientific name, common name, observation tips, habitat, size, appearance, similar species, distribution, phenology, status and ease of identification. Furthermore each family, and within that each genus, is introduced separately with useful identification features (covering appearance, behaviour, webs etc). The species accounts (and the rest of the book) are superbly illustrated with hundreds of high-quality images, contributed for the most part by hundreds of amateur photographers, which are intelligently and attractively laid out. Spider sightings always peak in the autumn when the males of many species reach adulthood and wander about looking for females, he says.Identifying spiders can often be difficult, as they are very small, elusive, and many species resemble one another. The colouration and pattern of a spider can be a useful way to identify them, as well as other key features such as the structure of their webs. In some cases, it is necessary to take a closer look at the genitalia under a microscope, as this can be the only way to confidently identify certain species. You can also use your location as a clue, as some species are more likely to be found in certain parts of the UK. Spider bites are quite rare, so there is generally no cause for concern if you see spiders in your home. All spiders can bite - that’s how most subdue and kill their prey - but only a small number have fangs that are strong enough to pierce human skin. Four spot orb-weaver ( Araneus quadratus) The four spot orb weaver spider usually weaves webs between adjacent plants/Credit: Getty

Spider ID with Microscopes which is more like the ‘traditional’ ID course where we work with preserved specimens in the classroom and introduce the idea of definitive ID by examination of reproductive organs and other microscopic features. Upcoming course: Sept 6th, Preston Montford, Shropshire

Thomisidae - Crab spiders

It makes me think how hard have we looked for it on our coasts? Have we been looking hard enough?” said Waite, who believes the spider could be more widespread than people think.

Now in a comprehensively revised and updated new edition, Britain’s Spiders is a guide to all 38 British families, focussing on spiders that can be identified in the field. Illustrated with photographs, it is designed to be accessible to a wide audience, including those new to spider identification. UK spider species usually have eight eyes, though some many have six or even less. You would assume this meant they have excellent vision, but they don't. With poor eyesight, spiders tend to rely on touch, taste and vibrations to move around and find food. Can you be bitten by a spider in the UK? This is a guide that will revolutionise the study of British spiders, allowing confident field identification of many species and encouraging a new cohort of natural historians to take a closer look at these extraordinary creatures." Introductory chapters on the biology of spiders, and where, when and how to find them, including equipment needed in the fieldDetailed accounts and more than 700 stunning photographs highlight key identification features for each genus and species, and include information on status, behaviour andhabitats This fine work, co-produced with the British Arachnological Society, offers the best introduction and field guide to British spiders by a country mile."—David Clements MRSB, Biologist Information on how to record spiders and make your records count, and guidance on how to take your interestfurther Information on how to record spiders and make your records count, and guidance on how to take your interest further