GRAVE DIGGER: Massive False Widow Spider ‘With Skull on Its Back’ Found in Horrified Family’s Bathroom
In a scene straight out of a horror film, a British family was left terrified after discovering a massive false widow spider in their bathroom – complete with eerie markings resembling a human skull on its back.
The unsettling encounter took place in a suburban home in Kent, where the Green family had just finished their evening routine when 10-year-old Molly screamed upon spotting the large, dark creature perched above the bathroom window. “I thought it was fake at first,” said her father, Darren Green. “But when it moved, I realized we were dealing with something very real – and very creepy.”
The spider, later identified by experts as a Steatoda nobilis, or noble false widow, measured approximately 3 centimeters in body length – significantly larger than average for the species. But what most alarmed the family was the distinctive white pattern on its back, resembling a human skull, giving rise to its new nickname: “Grave Digger.”
Photographs of the spider, taken by Darren before it was carefully trapped and handed over to local pest control, show the haunting “skull” marking in stark detail. The image quickly went viral on social media, with users calling the spider “nature’s nightmare” and “death on eight legs.”
False widow spiders have become increasingly common in the UK in recent years, partly due to milder winters and increased international shipping. Though less dangerous than their infamous cousin, the black widow, the noble false widow can still deliver a venomous bite that causes pain, swelling, and occasionally more serious symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Arachnologist Dr. Sarah Duncombe from the University of Kent confirmed the spider’s identity and reassured the public. “The ‘skull’ marking is a natural pattern, and while it may be visually alarming, it’s not an indicator of increased danger. Still, caution is advised around large false widows – their bites are not fatal, but they can be painful.”
She added, “These spiders are not aggressive and typically only bite in self-defense. If you find one in your home, avoid direct contact and seek professional removal.”
The Green family has since had their home inspected and sealed for potential spider entry points. “We’re not taking any chances,” Darren said. “I don’t want another Grave Digger showing up while I’m brushing my teeth.”
Wildlife experts suggest that the presence of false widows in UK homes will likely continue as the climate warms and urban environments provide ideal shelter. Residents are encouraged to keep areas clean, seal wall cracks, and use natural deterrents like peppermint oil to keep the creatures at bay.
While the Green family’s chilling find may have been a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, it serves as a reminder that nature’s surprises can sometimes be just a room away – and that even in our most private spaces, we might not be alone.
Leave a Reply