Wolf spiders are common arachnids, but they’re frequently misunderstood. You’re likely to see them in Tennessee, whether you live in a rural area or a more populated city neighborhood. Encounters with wolf spiders in Tennessee are pretty common.
This article will give you the lowdown on wolf spider identification, behavior, where they live, and how to stay safe around them. We’ll also discuss how to reduce any fear you might have and promote a peaceful coexistence with these interesting creatures.
What is a Wolf Spider?
Wolf spiders belong to the Lycosidae family. Worldwide, there are more than 2,800 different species!
Unlike many other spiders, wolf spiders don’t build webs. They’re active hunters, meaning they chase down their prey. They rely on their speed and camouflage to catch insects and other small creatures.
Wolf spiders have eight eyes arranged in three rows, which gives them excellent vision. They range in size from about a quarter of an inch to over an inch long.
Identifying wolf spiders in Tennessee
There are several species of wolf spiders in Tennessee. Here are some of the most common:
- Tigrosa aspersa
- Tigrosa georgicola: Female Tigrosa georgicola spiders are generally 0.6 to 0.8 inches long, while males are a bit smaller, at 0.4 to 0.6 inches.
- Trochosa sepulchralis
- Tigrosa annexa
Other species may be present in Tennessee, but these are the ones people are most likely to see.
One of the most reliable ways to identify a wolf spider is to look at its eyes. They’re arranged in a distinctive pattern that’s unique to wolf spiders.
Wolf spiders are generally brown, gray, or black, with markings that help them blend in with their surroundings. They range in size from less than half an inch to more than an inch long.
Where do wolf spiders live in Tennessee?
You can find wolf spiders just about anywhere in Tennessee. They live in open fields, woodlands, and sometimes even around houses. They’re adaptable to a variety of environments, though research suggests they prefer flatter, open areas.
Some wolf spiders dig burrows, while others just roam around looking for food and mates. You might see them under rocks, in leaf litter, or even sunning themselves on a warm surface.
What do wolf spiders eat?
Wolf spiders are insectivores, meaning they eat insects. They tend to feed on whatever they can catch. However, they particularly like grasshoppers, crickets, cockroaches, and flies.
These spiders are ambush predators. They have excellent camouflage, so they can hide and wait for prey to come close. They also have amazing eyesight, which helps them spot insects from a distance. When they see something they like, they use their speed to chase it down.
Wolf Spider Reproduction and Life Cycle
Wolf spiders have an unusual way of reproducing. Female wolf spiders attach their egg sacs to their spinnerets, or silk-spinning organs, and carry them around. When the spiderlings hatch, they climb onto their mother’s back where they stay for several weeks.
This maternal care is very important. Studies have shown that baby wolf spiders might actually learn hunting skills through interacting with their mothers.
These spiders typically live for one to two years.
Are Wolf Spiders Venomous and Dangerous?
Yes, wolf spiders are venomous. But don’t worry, their venom is mostly for paralyzing insects and other prey. They almost never bite people, and studies show they only attack if they feel threatened.
If a wolf spider does bite you, you might feel a little pain, and the area could turn red and swell up. But generally, wolf spiders aren’t aggressive, and they really don’t pose much of a threat to humans.
What eats wolf spiders in Tennessee?
Even though they’re predators themselves, wolf spiders are also prey. Predators of wolf spiders include lizards, amphibians, wasps, birds, and other large arthropods. In Tennessee’s ecosystems, wolf spiders play an important role both as predators and as a food source for other animals.
In Closing
Wolf spiders are common in Tennessee, and while they might look intimidating, they’re generally harmless to people. They play an important role in controlling insect populations and keeping the Tennessee ecosystem healthy.
So, next time you spot one of these furry arachnids, remember to appreciate its place in the natural world.