
Community identification
Woodlouse spider (sowbug killer)
Dysdera crocata
- Order & Family
- Araneae; Dysderidae
- Size
- Body about 8–15 mm long; females are generally larger than males.
Natural Habitat
Often found beneath stones, logs, leaf litter, and in damp areas around homes, especially basements and gardens.
Diet & Feeding
Primarily hunts woodlice (pill bugs and sowbugs), but may also eat other small invertebrates.
Behavior Patterns
A nocturnal, ground-dwelling hunter that does not build a prey-catching web; it shelters in a silken retreat by day.
Risks & Benefits
Its bite can cause localized pain and redness but is not considered medically dangerous. It helps control woodlice and is generally not aggressive toward people.