Montreal residents may have noticed an increase in the number and size of spiders this fall. According to experts, this phenomenon is due to a combination of factors, including weather conditions and the natural life cycle of these arachnids.
Entomologist Dr. Marie-Claude Belanger explains that the warm and humid weather this summer has created the perfect environment for spiders to thrive. This, coupled with the fact that fall is their mating season, has led to a noticeable increase in their population.
In addition, the natural life cycle of spiders plays a role in their presence during the fall season. As the weather cools down, spiders begin to seek shelter and mate before laying their eggs. This results in a higher number of spiders being visible to humans.
While some may find the increase in spiders unsettling, experts assure that there is no cause for alarm. Spiders play an important role in controlling insect populations and are generally harmless to humans. In fact, most spiders found in Montreal are not venomous and pose no threat to humans.
However, for those who are still uncomfortable with the presence of spiders, there are steps that can be taken to minimize their presence. These include sealing cracks and crevices in homes, keeping outdoor lights off at night, and removing clutter and debris from yards.
Overall, the increase in spiders in Montreal this fall is a natural occurrence and should not be a cause for concern. As the weather continues to cool down, their population will decrease and they will once again retreat into their hiding spots. So, for now, it’s best to appreciate these eight-legged creatures for their important role in our ecosystem.