About Scotophaeus blackwalli (Thorell, 1871)
This species of spider has the scientific name Scotophaeus blackwalli (Thorell, 1871). Adult male spiders grow up to 9 millimeters in length and mature in early summer. Adult female spiders reach 12 millimeters in length, and can be found until autumn. The spider's carapace is dark brown, while its abdomen is brown-grey and covered in hairs that resemble the fur on a mouse's body. This trait gives the species its common name, 'mouse spider'. The legs are brown and covered in thick pubescence. Males have a small scutum on the dorsal side of the abdomen. Scotophaeus blackwalli is native to Europe, the Caucasus, Turkey, and Iran. It has been introduced to North America, Peru, and Hawaii. In Britain, it is commonly found around and inside houses, usually in autumn. In warmer regions of Europe, it is typically found under bark and in holes in walls. This spider hunts during the night.
