The name of the Wolf Spider originates from the initial belief that these spiders hunted in a pack together. They also go by ground spiders or hunting spiders, as they do not use a web; they literally hunt down their prey. These arachnids move quickly and can reach two feet per second, which reduces the likelihood that you’ll even get near one. If you do have a close encounter; wolf spiders are not known for being aggressive, but they can and will bite when feeling threatened. If bitten, apply ice to reduce swelling, avoid movement if possible, and immediately seek medical attention. Spider bites can get worse over time, and the sooner a doctor sees you the better the outcome.

Something you don’t want to do is attempt killing the spiders by smacking or hitting them, as mother wolf spiders (similar to most species) carry their young on their bac. If you do try this, the baby spiders will scatter and you’re left with quite a bunch of them throughout your home.

Where do wolf spiders live and will they enter my home?
They make homes under rocks or they will dig holes in the ground and cover their hiding places with grass and leaves. During the autumn season, as is usual for most insects, wolf spiders may venture into your home in hopes of a warmer winter and survival.

What do wolf spiders look like?
Frequently mistaken for tarantulas, wolf spiders have brown/dark coloration and are quite hairy. Having eight eyes in total (four smaller eyes in the bottom row, two larger eyes in the middle, and two of medium size on the top row), these spiders can see very well which comes in handy traveling at such high speeds! Their front legs are reasonably large, and wolf spiders have fairly strong chelicerae (pincher or claw like appendages) to crush and tear apart their prey.

Don’t risk the safety of your family and your pets, call us today if you suspect poisonous spiders in your home and we will be there as soon as possible to remove them.