Upon encountering a huge, hairy six-inch spider chilling on their car dashboard, the majority of people would understandably use their own two legs to get as far away as possible.
However, after making such a discovery back in February 2021, Australian man Chris Taylor did no such thing, instead choosing to take on 'Steve' as a pet.
The 42-year-old safety manager has now allowed Steve to live freely inside his car for a full year, during which time she's doubled in size.
Having now become quite attached to his eight-legged stowaway, Chris has no plans to show her the door anytime soon.
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Chris said: “She just appeared one day about a year ago on the dashboard when I stopped at the lights. She was only about half the size she is now though, I’ve watched her grow.
"I did get her out of the car a few months ago but the next day she was back under the sun visor, so she likes it in my car for some reason."
Thankfully, Chris isn't generally too spooked about spiders. However, he will admit that he doesn't "appreciate it when she falls into my lap", a thought that will no doubt make arachnophobes everywhere shudder.
He's also not too keen when his driving buddy "appears 10cm above my head on the headlining while driving at 124mph."
Chris recalled: “I had her fall on my lap one time and almost hit the Sydney Harbour tunnel wall.
"I named him Steve, because why not? I have seen been told, however, that he is she. When I have passengers in my car they are often startled or scream. Steve is great at keeping me more alert when I drive."
Although Chris likes Steve, he wouldn't say they're the best of friends just yet. However, he admits that he's more than happy leaving her to live in his car. Not only for the company but because no one wants to grab a ride with him anymore, saving him heaps of cash.
The accidental spider owner explained: "I’ll let her stay, I’m saving money as no one wants a lift anymore. I like her but wouldn’t say we’re close friends. Yet!
"I would be a bit sad if she decided to leave. Driving is far more exciting with her in there."
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