Wolf spiders are common arachnids found worldwide, excluding Antarctica. Over 2,400 species exist globally. These robust, hairy spiders are frequently encountered in gardens, forests, and homes. They are known for their active hunting style rather than relying on webs.
Wolf Spider Venom
Wolf spiders possess venom, which they use to subdue insect prey. While their fangs can puncture human skin, the venom is generally not considered dangerous to people. Bite effects are typically mild and localized, resembling a bee or wasp sting.
Common symptoms at the bite site include mild pain, redness, swelling, and itching. Two small puncture marks from the fangs might be visible. More severe reactions, such as muscle cramping or small blisters, can occur but are rare. Unlike black widow or brown recluse venom, wolf spider venom does not typically cause severe tissue damage or widespread systemic effects.
What to Do After a Bite
After a wolf spider bite, clean the wound to prevent infection. Gently wash the bite area with warm water and soap. Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in cloth to reduce swelling and pain.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can manage discomfort, and antihistamines may relieve itching. It is important to avoid scratching the bite to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
Most bites resolve within a few days. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, do not improve, or if signs of an allergic reaction appear. Serious allergic responses, though rare, include difficulty breathing, facial or throat swelling, widespread hives, or a rapid heart rate.
How to Identify Wolf Spiders
Wolf spiders have distinct physical characteristics and behaviors. They are robust, hairy spiders, typically ranging from less than half an inch to over an inch and a half in body length, often with patterns of brown, gray, or black. Their legs are stout and relatively long, aiding in their ability to run quickly. A key identifying feature is their unique eye arrangement: eight eyes in three rows, with four small on the bottom, two very large in the middle, and two medium-sized on top. They are often found on the ground in leaf litter, grassy areas, or near water, and some species construct burrows.