Wolf spiders live and hunt alone and have a wolflike habit of chasing down their prey.
Keep these facts about the creature in mind as you spend time outdoors.
Female wolf spiders are typically larger than males.
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They make their home in ground burrows.
After a courtship ritual and mating, females sometimes eat the male.
Spiderlings grow by shedding their skins and emerging as fully grown adults.
Are Wolf Spiders Dangerous?
Wolf spiders are not aggressive and will not bite unless frightened or provoked.
Although their bite is not deadly, it can be very painful.
Wolf spiders typically only bite humans if they are handled or touched.
They usually avoid humans and run away when people are nearby.
Wolf spiders are nocturnal creatures and will do the majority of their hunting and wandering at night.
It can run, climb, and swim but rarely does so unless it is stalking prey.
Unlike the orb-weaver spider, which operates primarily by feel, the wolf spider communicates with its vision.
They can also beharbored in firewood, ground tunnels, under leaf piles, and other ground clutter.
They may be found around door or window frames, in houseplants, and in basements and garages.
They do not like people and will likely scurry away when they hear your footsteps.
If you choose to spray on your own, be sure to read and follow all label directions closely.
Ensure the site (indoors, along the foundation, outside, etc.)
is listed on the label, and use only products labeled for spiders or nuisance pests.
Wolf Spider vs. Brown Recluse
Neither wolf nor brown recluse spiders are inherently aggressive towards humans.
Wolf spiders are hunters, and they will follow their prey inside your home if necessary.
Close cracks where pests can slip through.
Home & Garden Information Center, Clemson University, South Carolina.
How Do I Get Rid Of Wolf Spiders?Orkin.