Bug Identifier
Wolf Spider
Community identification

Wolf Spider

Lycosidae (many genera and species)

Order & Family
Order Araneae, Family Lycosidae
Size
Typically range from 0.4 to 3.5 cm (0.16 to 1.38 inches) in body length, with leg spans sometimes reaching up to 10 cm (4 inches).
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in a wide range of habitats including grasslands, forests, deserts, gardens, and often found indoors in basements or garages, especially in cooler weather. They are ground-dwelling.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly other insects and small invertebrates; they are active predators and do not use webs to catch prey.

Behavior Patterns

Wolf spiders are solitary hunters, active at night, and known for their speed and agility in pursuing prey. Females carry their egg sacs attached to their spinnerets and, after hatching, the spiderlings ride on the mother's back for a period.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Their bite can be painful, similar to a bee sting, but is generally not dangerous to humans. Symptoms might include localized pain, redness, and swelling. Benefits: They are beneficial predators, helping to control populations of various insect pests in agricultural and natural environments.