Irish homes may soon be invaded by an army of Steatoda nobilis, commonly known as the false widow spider.
The creatures will be seeking shelter from the cold temperatures, and Irish homes and sheds may just be the place to go.
The specimens can be easily recognised by the white markings on their brownish-reddish bodies.
Steatoda‘s venom, while not fatal, can induce severe pain and lead to swelling and fever in susceptible individuals.