Bug Identifier
Woodlouse Hunter Spider
Community identification

Woodlouse Hunter Spider

Dysdera crocata

Order & Family
Araneae: Dysderidae
Size
10-15 mm (body length excluding legs)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Under rocks, logs, and leaf litter, often near human dwellings where woodlice are present.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly carnivorous, primarily feeding on woodlice (sowbugs or pillbugs) using large chelicerae.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal hunters that do not spin webs to catch prey; they use silk only for egg sacs and molting retreats.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling crustacean populations; bites are rare and typically involve localized pain and itching but no serious toxins.