Lepthyphantes leprosus

This is one of the larger 'money spiders'. There are two very similar Lepthyphantes species in Leicestershire and Rutland and expert help is recommended when attempting identification. Confirmation of this species requires examination of the genitals of mature specimens. 

Confirmation of this species requires examination of the genitals of mature specimens. 

L. leprosus is found in all types of buildings, from newly built houses (noticed within nine months of completion) to derelict barns. It forms small webs across corners of rooms, behind cupboards, etc. mostly at fairly low levels. It also occurs in disused quarries, in bark of old trees in parkland and broad-leaved woodland, under man-hole covers, in rubbish and in garden litter.

Adults of both sexes have been recorded throughout the year, possibly with peaks in the autumn and spring.

Widespread and probably fairly common in Britain, but seems to be under recorded - it becomes more scattered and infrequent further north.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.

1096 British records to Jan 2013.