Wolf Spiders
Description: There are many genera of Wolf Spider, ranging in body size from less than 1 mm to 5 inches. They have eight eyes arranged in three rows. The bottom row consists of four small eyes, the middle row has two very large eyes, and the top row has two medium-sized eyes. They depend on their eyesight, which is quite good, to hunt. Their sense of touch is also acute. Because they depend on camouflage for protection, they do not have the flashy appearance of some other kinds of spiders. In general their coloration is appropriate to their favorite habitat.
Biology: Wolf spiders are unique in carrying their eggs along with them in a round silken globe, or egg sac, which they attach to the spinnerets at the end of their abdomen. Also unique to wolf spiders is their method of infant care. Immediately after the little spiders hatch and emerge from their protective silken case, they clamber up their mother’s legs and all crowd onto her abdomen.
Habits: Wolf Spiders are nocturnal and will be out hunting for food, making it easier to find them. They are robust and agile hunters with good eyesight. They live mostly solitary lives and hunt alone. Some are opportunistic wanderer hunters, pouncing upon prey as they find it or chasing it over short distances. Others lie in wait for passing prey.
Although their reputation would lead one to believe otherwise, the bite of the wolf spider is not fatal. Wolf spiders also do not bite unless threatened or provoked. In most cases the wolf spider will first retreat or rear up on its legs, exposing its large fangs.
Learn More about Other Spiders:
HOBO SPIDERS, BLACK WIDOW SPIDERS, BROWN RECLUSE SPIDERS, HOUSE SPIDERS, GARDEN SPIDERS, JUMPING SPIDERS, SAC SPIDERS