Wolf Spider
(Family Lycosidae)
Appearance
Wolf spiders are large, hairy spiders which are usually patterned with a mixture of black, gray, and brown. Wolf spider is a common name for the spider family Lycosidae. Wolf spiders look particularly malicious, however they are generally considered to be innocuous to humans because they will not bite unless absolutely provoked.
Size
Range from ½ to 2-inches in length.
Behavior
Wolf spiders are active hunters during the day and night (depending on the species). They are common and usually enter structures underneath doors or through cracks in the exterior walls. In many species, female wolf spiders lay dozens of eggs at one time and wrap them in a large ball of web. The female will then carry the egg sac with them until the spiderlings hatch. Upon hatching the, spiderlings will live on the mothers back for a few weeks until they are large enough to hunt on their own.
Habitat
Wolf spiders are common in almost all terrestrial habitats, but are usually found in areas of shrubs or tall grass where a plentiful insect supply is available. They run over the ground or on plants in search of prey and pounce upon the victims with vigor and power. Wolf spiders do not usually breed in homes.
Interesting Facts
Wolf spiders are not poisonous, though as with all spiders bites may cause reactions in certain individuals.
Control
Do you live in Florida and think that this spider may be invading your home? Hulett Environmental Services offers specialty pest control treatments designed to control and eliminate this pest!
