Wolf Spiders
A big, hairy, fast-crawling spider spotted out of the corner of your eye could be a wolf spider. Wolf spiders, unlike other spiders, scrounge the floor for prey as opposed to in a web; therefore, it is not uncommon to spot them around your home.
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What Are Wolf Spiders?
Wolf spiders belong to the Lycosidae family, which is the Ancient Greek name for wolf, hence their name.
These plump, dark brown with pale-colored stripes, hairy spiders range in size from 3/8 to 3/4-inches, and they also have 8 long, spiny legs, which sets them apart from other spiders. They also have a pair of large, distinguished eyes, which provide them with keen eyesight. They are also sensitive to touch due to the hairs on their bodies. They also carry their silken, round egg sac on their abdomen, which is different than other spiders. Once their spiderlings are born, they then climb back onto the mother's abdomen, which enables her to carry her young with her, another unique trait. |
This species of spider is most commonly found outdoors, but they sometimes unintentionally make their way indoors in search of prey, where once inside, they may stay. Indoors, they can typically be spotted on the floor, especially under furniture and along walls. Meanwhile, outside, they usually seek shelter under leaves, firewood, stone, and more.
Wolf spiders typically rest in sheltered places during the day and do their hunting during the night, where they are often spotted by people swiftly chasing after prey, which includes a variety of insects.
Because they eat crop insects, as well as many other insects, they are deemed as beneficial in some cases.
Wolf spiders typically rest in sheltered places during the day and do their hunting during the night, where they are often spotted by people swiftly chasing after prey, which includes a variety of insects.
Because they eat crop insects, as well as many other insects, they are deemed as beneficial in some cases.
Do Wolf Spiders Pose Any Risks?
Wolf spiders are venomous animals; however, they do not pose a threat to humans unless they are picked up or handled, in which case they may bite, which can cause mild pain, swelling, and itching in the affected area. Otherwise, they are just simply intimidating due to their large size, especially to those with a fear of spiders.
Treating Wolf Spiders
As with any pest, it is important to seal all cracks, gaps, and other openings in and around your property to help prevent wolf spiders from entering your property, as well as their prey, which can attract wolf spiders.
You should also be sure that all windows and doors contain screens to help keep spiders out. Debris around your home can also attract wolf spiders, so be sure to keep your property free of debris, which can serve as harborage.
If you spot a wolf spider in your home, contact a professional who, in some cases, may use glue traps to trap the spider and then remove it from your home. The technician can also create a barrier around your home to help deter wolf spiders from entering your property. Periodic treatments at the start of the season may also be recommended to help you stay on top of the issue.
You should also be sure that all windows and doors contain screens to help keep spiders out. Debris around your home can also attract wolf spiders, so be sure to keep your property free of debris, which can serve as harborage.
If you spot a wolf spider in your home, contact a professional who, in some cases, may use glue traps to trap the spider and then remove it from your home. The technician can also create a barrier around your home to help deter wolf spiders from entering your property. Periodic treatments at the start of the season may also be recommended to help you stay on top of the issue.
