As the weather turns cooler across the country, many creatures big and small are looking for ways to stay warm. It seems like one car owner found out the hard way that her car had been chosen as the perfect spot for a talented arachnid, that built a massive web inside her vehicle.
“I opened my car door this weekend to discover the most horrifying (and impressive!?) spider web — spider included — inside my car between my steering wheel and headrest,” Threads user @b_hollz posted captioned a photo of the huge web. “Still haven’t recovered, accepting thoughts and prayers.”
While the post drew lots of feedback from those who were able to quickly identify the spider (and offer words of condolence), there were just as many people who also needed time to recover from the jump scare. “I’m sorry to say you now must sell this car,” one person joked.
But the reality is that finding spiderwebs in uncommon places is, well, common this time of year. So those with a touch of arachnophobia (fear of spiders) may want to be extra cautious the next few weeks.
Commenters Believe That the Poster Was Dealing With an Orb Weaver
View on Threads
The good news for the Threads user is that most commenters agree that the woman was dealing with an orb weaver spider. “Judging by the shape/size and the shape of the web [I’m] sure that’s an orb weaver spider,” one person wrote. “Harmless and amazing at pest control, obviously not allowed in your car but they’re not aggressive at all and are great for the environment so please don’t kill him!”
Another person offered insight on how to remove the spider. “Orb weaver,” they confirmed. “Get two sticks and place one on either side behind the web and bring it forward it should keep the web intact as you bring it and the spider over to a nearby bush or something.”
Others Joked That the Spider Was Now the Rightful Owner of the Car
Spiders (and snakes) tend to fall in the “burn it all down” category of creepy-crawlies on social media. However, most people were a little more generous with their assessments of this spider, instead saying that the Threads user just needed to hand over the keys and move on.
“That’s not your car anymore,” one person joked. “The spider is the legal title holder.”
“Ma’am, that spider has already signed and submitted the title sale to the DMV,” another person chimed in. “You will need to take a Lyft to a dealership and buy yourself a new car. Leave the keys, please.”
Keep Spiders Out of Your Car by Sealing Entryways
Since the Threads user was clearly shaken by the spider development, it’s likely she could’ve benefited from some of the tips shared by Toyota of Clermont. According to the website, it’s important to deep clean your vehicle to remove any trash, crumbs, or debris that would appear inviting to the spiders.
Next, the website says it’s important to seal any gaps in your car, including around the doors or windows, to keep them from coming in. Then the website suggests setting spider traps, and keeping both your garage and where you park free from debris.
Lastly, spider deterrents can also keep them out. Toyota of Clermont lists essential oils or “approved sprays” as two solutions that can be combined with the other steps listed on the website. Of course, those who aren’t bothered by spiders may welcome the eight-legged guests, since they tend to take care of any other bugs and pests that could enter your vehicle.