What Are Wolf Spiders?

The phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover", certainly applies to wolf spiders. These spiders look intimidating, but the truth is, wolf spiders cause little harm to a person.

Most people find their appearance and their large size intimidating. Adults have a body that grows to between 1/2 and 2 inches in length. They use their eight legs to run very quickly after prey. The wolf spider’s fast movements are another reason people are so quick to be afraid of these spiders.

Other ways to identify wolf spiders include:

• A unique eye pattern. Wolf spiders have two large eyes on the top of the head, two large eyes at the front of the head, and a row of four smaller eyes above the mouth of the spider.
• A dark brown body and legs with pale, cream, or yellow stripes or markings.
• A layer of hair covering the body and legs.
• Short, powerful legs provide these spiders with the speed they need to effectively hunt their prey. 

Wolf Spider Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are wolf spiders dangerous?

Wolf spiders, like most species of spiders, want to stay away from people just as much as we want to stay away from them. People rarely suffer a wolf spider bite, and if one occurs, it is usually because they are threatening or handling a wolf spider.

If a bite does occur, the venom of a wolf spider is typically not strong enough to cause health problems in people. However, it is always a good idea to avoid a wolf spider bite because their bites have the potential to be painful and some swelling may occur around the bite site.

Why do I have a wolf spider problem?

Our yards often provide wolf spiders with the perfect habitat for them to live and hunt for insects. Common hideouts for wolf spiders include tall grass, under rocks or landscaping ties, in gardens, and within potted plants.

Wolf spiders prefer homes and yards with plenty of insect activity and secluded places to burrow.

Where will I find wolf spiders?

When living outside near our homes, these spiders often find their way inside Dallas houses, garages, and sheds while chasing prey.

Wolf spiders do not build webs to capture their prey like many other spiders. As the name suggests, wolf spiders run after, chase down, and pounce on their prey.

Wolf spiders are not great climbers. Therefore, they live and hunt at ground level. When inside of our homes, these spiders travel along the floor and against walls. They hide underneath furniture, in closets, and basements.

How do I get rid of wolf spiders?

If you have noticed large, fast-moving spiders living in or around your Dallas home, reach out to the professionals at All-Safe Pest & Termite.

We understand the habits and behaviors of wolf spiders, how to eliminate them, and how to keep them from returning. Our experienced professionals help Dallas home and business owners maintain pest-free properties using the latest and most effective products. To learn more about our eco-friendly spider control solutions, reach out to us today!

How can I prevent wolf spiders in the future?

Prevent problems with wolf spiders by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Reduce the number of insects living in your yard and home.
• Keep lids on trashcans, reduce areas of excess moisture, make sure screens in windows and doors are intact.
• Cut overgrown vegetation back to reduce hiding spots near the perimeter of your home.
• Repair cracks or gaps that form in the foundation of your home.
• Keep storage areas within your home free of clutter and debris.
• Remove excess piles of wood, brush piles, and leaf piles from your yard that wolf spiders could hide underneath.