There's a Spider in My Bathtub
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How many times have you heard, said or thought the question, "there's a spider the size of a tennis ball in my bathtub, what should I do"?
First, you can take comfort in knowing that the question is commonly heard in households with bathtubs around the world. Spiders and bathtubs go together like peanut butter and jelly.
Most arachnologists will tell you that people commonly see spiders in bathtubs because wandering male house spiders travel around the house during autumn and winter when it is cold outside. They accidentally fall into the bathtub and are unable to escape because of the tub's slippery sides.
Given the configuration of most modern plumbing systems, it is highly unlikely that the spider crawled up through the drain.
The second suggestion would be to check your math. It is not uncommon for people to exaggerate the size of a spider on first sight. If the spider in the tub is really the size of a tennis ball, like the one pictured here, there is good news. Your spider is most likely not the more dangerous hobo or recluse spider. It is probably a giant house spider (egenaria duellica) that can measure up to three inches in diameter with its legs extended.
The third course of action is optional, depending on the number and squeamishness levels of the household members. You can either call on the least squeamish household member to deal with the problem, or you may already be the least squeamish member of the household. In that case, you can trap the spider under a glass, slide a sturdy piece of cardboard beneath the opening, and carry and release the spider in the outdoors.
Please remember to release the spider some distance from your house, or chances are he will soon visit again. House spiders rank among the speediest spiders on earth and yours may very well race you back home.
You can find additional information and pictures about house spiders by clicking on the link.
© 2007. Patricia A. Michaels