The Nosferatu spider, originally from the Mediterranean region, has established itself particularly in southwestern Germany and is now considered native. As scientist Hubert Höfer from the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe explains, its own reproduction and success in the ecosystem show that this invasive species now belongs to the southwest. The spread is favored by the higher temperatures of recent summers, and especially in the Rhine Valley, the spider is appearing more frequently.
While the Nosferatu spider was previously mainly seen indoors, it is now also more frequently found outdoors, such as in parks or under tree bark. Whether it displaces or endangers native species is still being researched.
Report Nosferatu spider online
The NABU continues to call for sightings of this species to be reported – ideally with a photo. This is important as the migration of such animals can provide insights into climate change and other environmental developments.
So if you would like to contribute, you can simply use the web app Naturgucker to report the Nosferatu spider in your area.