Wolf spiders are robust, agile hunters known for their excellent eyesight. These ground-dwelling spiders are found globally across various habitats. Unlike many other spider species, wolf spiders do not spin webs to capture their prey. Their name originates from their active, wolf-like hunting style, though they are solitary creatures.
Wolf Spiders Across Arizona
Wolf spiders are common throughout Arizona, thriving in the state’s diverse environments. The warm, dry climate of Arizona provides a suitable habitat for these adaptable arachnids. They inhabit various regions, including arid desert floors, grasslands, and suburban areas like gardens and around homes.
The Carolina wolf spider (Hogna carolinensis) is a prevalent species. These spiders create burrows under rocks, within leaf litter, or by digging their own nests. Primarily nocturnal, wolf spiders emerge at night to hunt. Their presence contributes to the natural ecosystem by controlling insect populations.
Identifying Wolf Spiders
Wolf spiders are generally robust and hairy, with body sizes typically ranging from 10 to 35 millimeters (0.4 to 1.38 inches) excluding their legs; the Carolina wolf spider can exceed an inch. Their coloration usually varies from black and gray to various shades of brown, often displaying patterns that aid in camouflage.
A definitive characteristic for identifying wolf spiders is their unique eye arrangement, with eight eyes in three distinct rows. The lowest row features four small eyes, followed by two notably large eyes in the middle row, and two medium-sized eyes in the top row. This configuration grants them exceptional vision. At night, their eyes can reflect light, often appearing with a green glow. While their stout, hairy bodies might sometimes be mistaken for tarantulas, their eye pattern provides a clear distinguishing feature.
Understanding Their Behavior and Bites
Behavior
Wolf spiders are solitary hunters. They utilize their excellent eyesight, speed, and agility to pounce on insects and other small arthropods. Some species wait in burrows to ambush prey, while others actively roam, demonstrating the ability to climb or even swim.
Bites
These spiders are generally not aggressive towards humans and typically only bite when provoked, threatened, or accidentally handled. While wolf spiders possess venom, their bites are not considered medically significant to humans. A wolf spider bite is often described as similar to a bee sting, resulting in localized symptoms like mild pain, redness, and swelling. Occasionally, itching or a small red bump may develop, and two small fang marks might be visible.
If bitten, clean the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines can alleviate discomfort and itching; avoid scratching. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, spread, or if signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or a widespread rash, occur.