What do wolf spiders look like?
There are approximately 240 wolf spider species found in the United States. It would take quite a while to describe each of them. In general, they range from gray to brown. Female spiders are ⅜ to 1 ⅜ inches in length, and males are ¼ to ¾ inches. If you see a mid-sized, hairy spider that is flat to the ground and in possession of two large eyes and six smaller ones, you are likely looking at a wolf spider.
Do wolf spiders build webs?
Wolf spiders create web material but don't use their webbing to capture prey. They are hunter spiders, using their eyes to track prey and leap on it. The webbing they spin is used to line holes and crevices to offer protection when they retreat.
Do wolf spiders bite?
Wolf spiders are not prone to bite, but they are more than capable of biting if they are threatened or disturbed. The fangs of a wolf spider can break the skin of a human. Fortunately, they have weak venom. Most wounds result in redness and swelling. But the initial bite can hurt. The pain can range from a pinprick to a burning sting, depending on the species.
Are wolf spiders dangerous?
Generally speaking, these spiders do not pose a threat to people because their venom isn't strong enough to endanger humans. However, it is important to note that some individuals can have an allergic reaction to spider venom. If you experience difficulty breathing, rapid pulse, or anxiety, seek medical attention immediately.
How did I get wolf spiders?
Wolf spiders find their way indoors while hunting. They explore cracks and gaps in foundation slabs and crawl into structural cavities. If you see these spiders indoors, it is likely due to an entry point in your exterior. They can also crawl through an open door or window.
Another reason wolf spiders are found indoors is that they find other insects or bugs to feed on. These arachnids go where the hunting grounds are good. Routinely seeing wolf spiders indoors is a warning sign that there is another pest problem.
How do you get rid of wolf spiders?
At Greenway Pest Solutions, we provide home pest control services in the Phoenix metro that target wolf spiders and other types of spiders and pests that infest homes in our region. For more information on how our knowledgeable and experienced pest control specialist can help you get rid of wolf spiders, please reach out today.
What can I do to prevent wolf spider problems?
Once the spiders are gone, how do you keep them out? You can manage wolf spiders in and around your home by applying the following control and prevention tips:
- Remove hiding places near your home, such as leaves, sticks, scrap wood, plant debris, junk piles, and yard clutter.
- Trim shrubs, bushes, and other vegetation, and remove weeds and unwanted grass to reduce humidity in your landscaping.
- Clean gutters to reduce perimeter dampness, which attracts wolf spiders and the food they eat.
- Keep exterior lights off at night where it isn't a security concern as certain light sources can attract insects.
- Seal cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and your foundation slab to prevent entry.
- Protect your crawl space if you have one under your home.
- Address crawling pests inside your home to remove the food source wolf spiders need for survival.
