Wolf spider found in Fife couple’s fridge

A FIFE couple got the shock of their lives when they opened their fridge door to find an exotic spider lurking inside, it was revealed today.

The shocked couple, David and Beverley Cooper of Baird Street, Glenrothes, called in officers from the Scottish SPCA last Wednesday after discovering the arachnid - now identified as a wolf spider - next to a bunch of grapes.

The spider is now being cared for at the Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Mr Cooper said: “I heard my wife screaming and, when I went to see what was wrong, I discovered the spider sitting on the wall of the fridge.

“It was odd looking and I immediately knew it wasn’t a normal house spider. I think being in the cold had slowed it down as it wasn’t moving very quickly and was relatively easy to catch.”

He added: “I’m really glad the spider has found a new home as it’s certainly been through quite a journey, wherever it came from.”

Kieran Smart, an animal rescue officer with the SSPCA, explained: “The spider was found in the fridge, next to a box of grapes which originated from India, so the chances are it has come home in the Cooper’s shopping.

“Apparently Mrs Cooper was absolutely terrified when she spotted it, but her cool-headed husband managed to contain the spider until we arrived.”

He added: “This spider could give a nasty bite but thankfully no-one was harmed. Mr Cooper was quick-thinking and did the right thing by containing it safely and calling us for help.”

Kevin Watt, a spokesman for the Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World stressed: “This spider isn’t deadly but, if bitten, it would leave a real sting. Although it’s not much bigger than the average house spider, it definitely isn’t from Britain.

“It has different markings and, unlike house spiders, its eyes are at the front of its head, helping it to hunt and escape danger.”