Spiders are among the most widely feared and killed animals, yet emerging research suggests they may have more complex inner lives than traditionally assumed.
Spiders have traditionally been assumed to lack the neural complexity for significant welfare consideration. However, recent studies challenge this assumption. Jumping spiders show what appears to be a REM sleep state including twitching behavior similar to dreaming mammals. Nociceptors and defensive responses to injury have been documented. Some spider species show parental care behaviors and complex social structures. The precautionary principle suggests treating spiders with more consideration than typically given. Human fear of spiders leads to millions of unnecessary spider deaths annually. Garden and house spiders provide significant pest control services and deserve coexistence rather than persecution. Relocation rather than killing is a simple welfare improvement available to everyone.