
Community identification
Woodlouse Spider
Dysdera crocata
- Order & Family
- Araneae, Dysderidae
- Size
- 11 - 15 mm body length (0.4 - 0.6 inches), excluding leg span
Natural Habitat
Dark, damp places such as under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and occasionally indoors under carpets or in basements
Diet & Feeding
Carnivorous; primarily feeds on woodlice (sowbugs/pillbugs) using strong chelicerae (fangs) to pierce their tough exoskeletons
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal hunter that actively stalks prey without building capture webs; constructs silken retreat sacs under debris or in crevices to hide during the day
Risks & Benefits
Benefits: Excellent natural pest control for terrestrial crustaceans and other garden pests. Risks: Can bite humans if mishandled, causing localized pain, swelling, and itching due to large fangs, though the venom is not medically significant.