Facts, Identification & Control
Latin Name
Family Lycosidae
Appearance
Wolf Spider Illustration
Wolf spiders are hairy arachnids that can grow up to 35 mm in body length. Quick moving and relatively large in size, wolf spiders often inspire fear when they are found within human dwellings. Wolf spiders are also sometimes confused for tarantulas. However, occurrences of wolf spider bites are unlikely and are not known to be deadly.
Behavior, Diet & Habits
The Carolina wolf spider is the largest documented wolf spider in the United States. Its color matches its habitat, allowing for camouflage. Other wolf spider species may inhabit alpine meadows, coastal forests, dry shrub lands and woodlands. Most species are burrowers that live underground, although some specimens can be seen traveling above ground in leaf litter, on lawns and in gardens. Most wolf spiders are also nocturnal, although some do hunt in the morning. A wolf spider’s diet typically consists of insects and other small spiders.
Signs of a Wolf Spider Infestation
Sightings of wolf spiders are the main sign of their activity.
More Information
Although their reputation would lead one to believe otherwise, the bite of the wolf spider is not a significant medical threat to the average adult. Wolf spiders typically do not bite unless threatened or provoked. In most cases the wolf spider will first retreat or rear up on its legs, exposing its large fangs.
If wolf spiders are found invading a structure it is best to contact a local pest management agency.
Information
Types Of Wolf Spiders
South Carolina State Wolf Spiders
Jumping Spiders and Wolf Spiders