- Wandering Nosferatu spiders now prevalent across the country.
This arachnid enjoys warmth - hence, it's predominantly spotted in structures within Germany: The Nosferatu spider (Zoropsis spinimana) has become practically omnipresent in the country, as per the Nature Conservation Union (NABU). Measuring almost two centimeters in body length and boasting leg spans reaching up to six centimeters, it's among the largest spiders in the region.
The NABU also states that it's one of the few spiders in Germany with the strength to penetrate human skin. However, its venom poses no risk to humans, and the bite is akin to a weak wasp sting. It scarcely bites, only when cornered.
Originally hailing from the Mediterranean region, this species was first documented in Germany back in 2005 - in Baden-Württemberg. It's no longer scarcely found: Over 25,000 sightings were recorded on the NABU-naturgucker.de platform within a few weeks in fall 2022 alone. As of now, there have been around 35,000 reports from over 20,000 individuals.
This creature, a member of the hunting spider family, is increasingly being discovered outdoors - places like parks and gardens, for instance. The sweltering summers in recent years in Baden-Württemberg are said to be responsible for the spread of the Nosferatu spider, according to Hubert Höfer from the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe. It's particularly prevalent in this state, along the Rhine Valley.
As per NABU, an intriguing trait of the Nosferatu spider is its ability to cling to vertical glass surfaces. This is thanks to its special adhesive hairs. Despite belonging to the order of web-spinning spiders, it doesn't build webs. Instead, it stalks its prey.
The moniker is derived from the belief that the body of the vampire Nosferatu from the 1922 silent film can be discerned on its body.
If you happen to stumble upon a Nosferatu spider in your own abode, Höfer suggests staying calm: "We share our households and apartments with various spiders." If it's troubling you, you can simply relocate it outdoors.
The Nosferatu spider, known for its large size, is commonly found in structures within Germany due to its preference for warmth. Its unique ability allows it to cling to vertical glass surfaces, making it a challenging sight for many homeowners.
