Wolf spiders are big, hairy spiders that hunt on foot instead of spinning webs. These active hunters can be found in all sorts of habitats. If you live in Florida, you’ve probably seen a wolf spider or two.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about wolf spiders in FL, including what they look like, how they behave, and how to keep them out of your house.
Wolf spiders play an important ecological role, and they aren’t dangerous to people, so they’re beneficial to have around.
Appearance and Identification
Wolf spiders can look pretty scary, so it’s helpful to know what to look for.
Size and Physical Attributes
- Wolf spiders range in size from ¼” to 1 ½” in length, with a leg span up to 3″. That’s pretty big for a spider, and it’s one reason they can be alarming to homeowners.
- They’re typically brown or gray, which helps them blend in with their surroundings.
Key Identifying Features
- One way to identify a wolf spider is by its eyes. They have eight eyes arranged in three rows, which gives them almost 360-degree vision.
- Their large size and the way they hunt also set them apart from many other spiders.
Habitat and Behavior
If you spot a wolf spider in Florida, it’s most likely in its natural habitat.
Natural Habitats
Wolf spiders live outdoors in farms, woodlands, deserts, and even suburban neighborhoods. Because they’re ground dwellers, you’re likely to find them in leaf litter, under rocks, or in caves.
These spiders prefer dark, sheltered spots.
Hunting Behavior
Wolf spiders are active hunters that don’t spin webs. Instead, they rely on their excellent eyesight and speed to jump or pounce on their prey, which usually consists of insects and other small invertebrates.
Activity Patterns
Wolf spiders are generally most active at night. During the day, they stay on the ground, tucked away in their preferred hiding spots.
How do wolf spiders find prey?
Wolf spiders have eight eyes arranged in three rows. The arrangement of these eyes gives them almost 360-degree vision.
Their excellent eyesight helps them hunt, allowing them to quickly spot and track prey. They’re especially good at noticing movement.
Wolf spiders are also very sensitive to vibrations. They can feel vibrations on the ground, which helps them find prey even when they can’t see it.
Are wolf spiders harmful to humans?
Let’s be honest: spiders freak a lot of people out. And wolf spiders, with their size and speed, can be especially scary.
But the good news is that wolf spiders aren’t really dangerous to humans. They might bite if they feel threatened, and it will probably hurt, but their venom isn’t potent enough to cause serious problems.
In fact, wolf spiders are beneficial because they eat insects. So, they help control other pest populations.
Wolf spider control and prevention
If you’re finding wolf spiders in your home, there are several ways to control them and prevent future infestations.
Preventing entry
Seal any cracks or gaps in your walls and foundation to prevent wolf spiders from getting inside. Make sure your doors and windows are properly screened, too.
Removing hiding spots
Wolf spiders like to hide in leaf litter, rocks, and other debris, so clear these away from around your house. Keep your garden tidy and free of clutter.
Natural repellents
Some natural repellents, like vinegar, cinnamon, and lemon, can deter spiders from entering your home. You can try spraying these around your doors and windows.
Professional pest control
If you have a persistent wolf spider infestation, it’s best to call a pest control professional. They can identify the source of the infestation and recommend the best course of treatment. You can also use sticky traps indoors to capture wolf spiders.
Final Thoughts
Wolf spiders are big, active hunters with very good eyesight. You might spot them scurrying across your lawn or even inside your house. While they might look intimidating, they’re not dangerous to people or pets and actually provide an important ecological service by keeping insect populations in check.
If you’d prefer they didn’t share your living space, focus on prevention and natural control methods rather than harsh chemicals.