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Be careful in Heilbronn: spider runners are spreading – this is what you should know!
In Heilbronn more and more spider runners were spotted. Experts warn of possible bites and provide information about protective measures.
Be careful in Heilbronn: spider runners are spreading – this is what you should know!
In recent weeks, reports of spider runners (Scutigera coleoptrata) have emerged in and around Heilbronn, causing both concern and interest. These centipedes, which are up to 15 cm long, are widespread worldwide and have found their habitat primarily in damp regions such as basements, laundry rooms and bathrooms. Their main diet is spiders, flies, cockroaches and silverfish, making them useful pest killers, especially in viticulture, where they control harmful insects.
Despite their useful properties, spider walkers pose some risks, especially in the event of a bite. While a bite can be painful and may cause redness, swelling, or an allergic reaction, it should be noted that the pain is not as severe as that of a wasp sting. In addition, the spider runners' mouthparts are usually too weak to penetrate human skin, making bites a rarity. However, in the Heilbronn region, experts report that the population of spider runners is not increasing significantly, although they are spotted again and again.
Lifestyle and reproduction
Spider runners typically reproduce between April and June. Females lay up to 60 eggs under stones or in the ground. The larvae initially only have four pairs of legs and molt several times before reaching the adult stage, which takes about three years. Their body color is yellowish-gray with a striking striped pattern, which makes them characteristic. They use their long, thin antennae to find their way around their surroundings.
Management and prevention
In order not to unintentionally encourage spider runners, the living environment should be adapted accordingly. This includes reducing moisture through regular ventilation and the use of dehumidifiers. Leaky windows and doors should be sealed to make it more difficult for these creatures to enter. If an infestation occurs, insect sprays or homemade sticky traps, such as those made from a damp cloth, can be useful.
The spread of spider runners in Germany can be observed primarily in federal states such as Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse. Cities such as Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Frankfurt and Dresden regularly report sightings. While spider walkers have useful properties, experts emphasize the need to be aware of the risks, especially given an alarming rise in bed bugs in Heilbronn, which are often brought back from hotels as travel souvenirs. The information on this can be found in detail in the reports from Echo24 and Erasio.