Bug Identifier
Woodlouse Spider
Community identification

Woodlouse Spider

Dysdera crocata

Order & Family
Araneae, Dysderidae
Size
Females 11-15 mm, Males 9-10 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Under logs, rocks, bricks, and in leaf litter, often near human habitations where woodlice are found.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily feeds on woodlice (pillbugs/sowbugs), but will also eat other arthropods.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal hunters that do not spin webs to catch prey. They use their large chelicerae (jaws) to pierce the tough exoskeleton of woodlice.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans. Bite can be painful due to large fangs but venom is not medically significant. Beneficial for controlling woodlouse populations.