Woodlouse Hunter Spider
Scientific Name: Dysdera crocata
Order & Family: Araneae / Dysderidae
Size: 9 to 15 mm for females; males 7 to 10 mm

Natural Habitat
Under rocks, logs, and leaf litter; frequently found in basements or damp areas near woodlouse populations.
Diet & Feeding
Specializes in preying upon woodlice (sowbugs or pillbugs) using large chelicerae to pierce their armor.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal ground hunter that does not build webs for catching prey; instead, it utilizes silk for daytime retreats or egg sacs.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans; while they can bite if handled, the venom is not medically significant. Beneficially controls woodlouse populations.
Identified on: 5/23/2026