Identification
Wolf spiders are large, measuring between 1/4 inch to 1 1/2 inches in length. They are typically brown, gray, or black with various markings and a robust, hairy body. They have eight long legs and prominent eyes, with two large central eyes that distinguish them from other spiders. Unlike web-building spiders, wolf spiders are active hunters.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Wolf spiders undergo incomplete metamorphosis, progressing from egg to spiderling to adult. Females carry their egg sacs attached to their spinnerets, and upon hatching, spiderlings ride on their mother’s back for several days before dispersing. They reach maturity in about a year, and adults can live up to two years.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
Wolf spiders are nocturnal hunters that rely on speed and camouflage to catch prey. They do not build webs but actively stalk insects and other small arthropods. Their excellent vision and fast movements make them efficient predators. They prefer to live alone and avoid human interaction.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Wolf spiders are adaptable and can be found in various environments, including:
- Grasslands, forests, and fields
- Under rocks, logs, and leaf litter
- In basements, garages, and sheds
- Along windowsills and doorways
- Around gardens and landscaped areas
Threats & Danger
Wolf spiders are not aggressive but will bite if threatened. Their bites are not medically significant but can cause mild pain, redness, and swelling. They may enter homes in search of food but do not pose a major threat to humans.
Prevention
- Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations
- Reduce outdoor lighting to minimize insect attraction
- Keep yards clear of debris, logs, and leaf piles
- Store firewood away from structures
- Regularly vacuum and clean indoor spaces to remove hiding spots
Signs of Infestation
- Sightings of large, fast-moving spiders at night
- Presence of spiderlings on a female wolf spider’s back
- Finding burrows or hiding spots under rocks and logs
- Increased insect activity, which may attract wolf spiders
- Encounters in basements, garages, or along walls
How to Get Rid of It
- Capture and release wolf spiders outdoors when found inside
- Use sticky traps in areas with high spider activity
- Apply residual insecticides around entry points if necessary
- Reduce clutter and potential hiding spots indoors and outdoors
- Contact professional pest control if infestations persist