Wolf Spider Identification & Prevention

The wolf spider is a large, non-web-building species of spider. Adults have stocky, robust hairy body that is dark brown or black with cream, gray, or yellowish markings. Their long spiny legs allow these predators to chase their prey.

Wolf spiders grow to between ½ and 2 ½ inches in length. They have eight eyes set in three rows—four smaller eyes on the bottom row, two larger eyes in the middle row, and two medium eyes on the top row. Their large size and quick movements cause people to be startled by and afraid of these spiders.

Like most spiders, wolf spiders are shy and reclusive by nature. Considered nuisance pests, wolf spiders, despite their intimidating appearance, pose no real harm to people or property. Bites from these spiders are rare, but if one does occur, their venom is not strong enough to cause serious health problems in people.

Wolf spiders are on your property because it offers them locations to create their burrows. Also, yards with abundant insect populations attract these predators.

Instead of creating a web to catch their prey, wolf spiders create burrows in the ground under fallen logs, shrubs, bushes, woodpiles, leaf piles, and areas of tall, overgrown grass and vegetation. These spiders are nocturnal, hiding in their burrows during the day and emerging at night to hunt insects.

Wolf spiders live outside but do move indoors to hunt prey or escape harsh weather conditions. Inside, wolf spiders move around along the edges of your walls. They hide out in cabinets, closets, basements, and under furniture.

Acquiring help from a professional pest control expert is the best way to eliminate wolf spiders and keep them from returning. At Albemarle Termite & Pest Control, our technicians are highly trained and dedicated to providing safe and effective home pest control services that are affordable. We are a local, family-owned pest control company whose number one priority is putting our customers first and exceeding expectations. For home or business owners looking to eliminate pests from their property once and for all, call Albemarle Termite & Pest Control today!

Pests are not just a nuisance; they pose potential health risks and are capable of damaging property.

• Avoid problems with wolf spiders with the help of the following prevention tips.
• Remove fallen trees, overgrown vegetation, leaf piles, and excess woodpiles from your property.
• Remove tall grass and overgrown vegetation that is growing near the exterior walls of your house.
• Check the exterior walls of your home, using a caulking gun to fill in any holes.
• Remove clutter that is next to your walls.
• Place door sweeps on all exterior doors.
• Reduce insect activity on your property by partnering with a professional pest control expert.