Of the 680 spider species in Britain, only a handful can nip through human skin. Of these, the Noble False Widow spider (Steatoda nobilis) is the only one whose bite can be of medical significance. It arrived here from the Canary Islands and Madeira in the late 19th Century but in the last two decades has extended its range from a few sites on the south coast to encompass most of lowland England and Wales, with a few records from Scotland. In southern England it is now very abundant, remaining largely associated with built-up areas. 

Published three times a year, the BAS Newsletter brings you the latest in arachnology, from new species records and behavioural insights, to photography tips, field guides, and interviews with experts. Stay connected with our community and explore the fascinating world of spiders and other arachnids.

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2025 saw a new recipient of the BAS president's award, inaugurated in 2023 to recognise exceptional contributions by individual members towards the public understanding of arachnology. The award - an original Richard Lewington painting - was presented to Lawrence Bee by BAS President Bill Parker when he stepped down from BAS Council after an incredible 35 years’ service. The voluntary roles he took on included Education Officer, Press & Publicity Officer, Vice President and President.

The 23rd International Congress of Arachnology (ICA 2026) will be held in Kochi, Kerala, India, from 15th to 21st November, 2026. The first circular about the meeting contains information about the venue and surrounding area, together with a link for pre-registration. More information is available via the congress website.

We are pleased to announce a new small grant scheme for BAS members. The Stanley Dobson Award Scheme is intended to provide financial support to amateur arachnologists who are looking to advance their knowledge or field study of British arachnids. Encouraging amateur naturalists to engage in arachnology and expand their knowledge was very important to Stan and this Award Scheme has been established with support from his family as a lasting legacy, recognising his many contributions to the study of spiders and the British Arachnological Society. 

We're very please to announce that the BAS now has a bespoke iRecord recording form. This allows you to enter your UK spider, harvestman and Pseudoscorpion records. The form has optional ecological fields so that you can help improve our understanding of all of these fascinating species. You can also attach photographs of your sightings which will help with record verification.

The British Arachnological Society strongly condemns the invasion of Ukraine. The arachnological research and conservation community is international, working together towards common goals regardless of differences in language, culture, religion and political views. We now stand in solidarity with our colleagues and friends in Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and across the world. Our community entirely rejects this violence and urges a peaceful solution. 

The BAS offers small grants to its members to help with the costs of research and survey (normally £500-£2,500) and attending courses and conferences (normally up to £500). Full details of our grants, including application procedures, can be found here.