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Wolf Spider

Category

Actual Size: 1 ½”

Characteristics: Large; black, gray, or brown pattern on the back.

Legs: 8

Habitat: Usually found in leaf litter and grassy lawns. If they wind up indoors, they often stay near doors and windows or in basements.

Habits:

  • Unlike some spiders, they do not build webs to capture prey.
  • Active during both the day and the night.
  • Spiderlings stay on their mother until fully grown.


Wolf Spiders in Atlanta, GA

Wolf spiders are robust and agile arachnids known for their unique appearance and hunting abilities. They possess excellent eyesight, with two large forward-facing eyes that aid in hunting. Their coloration varies, often featuring shades of brown, gray, or black, and some species have striped or spotted patterns on their bodies. Unlike many other spiders, wolf spiders don’t spin webs to catch prey; instead, they are active hunters, chasing down insects and small invertebrates on the ground.

Wolf Spider Habitat

Wolf spiders inhabit a variety of habitats, ranging from grasslands and forests to gardens and even urban areas. They prefer ground-level habitats and can be found in leaf litter, under rocks, logs, or debris, and among grasses and low vegetation. These spiders seek shelter in burrows or crevices during the day, emerging at night to hunt for prey. Some species construct silk-lined burrows for protection or as nests for their egg sacs. They are particularly abundant in areas with abundant insect populations, as these serve as their primary food source.

Wolf Spider Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Wolf spiders, though generally not aggressive towards humans, might bite if they feel threatened or cornered. Their bites, while venomous, are typically not considered dangerous to humans, often causing mild symptoms such as redness, swelling, and localized pain, similar to a bee sting. Allergic reactions to wolf spider bites are rare but possible in sensitive individuals. Finding wolf spiders on your property can be disturbing. If you’re dealing with an infestation, contact your local spider exterminators quickly to have them removed.