The Carolina wolf spider is the largest wolf spider in North America and one of the largest wolf spiders found worldwide! Their large size and quick movements can be unnerving. It is rare for females to come inside, but roaming males will make their way inside when they are searching for a mate. You will really have to go out of your way to get bitten by a Carolina wolf spider. If you provoke them, chances are you’ll get bitten. Their venom is not a medical threat, but large fangs can produce a wasp-like sting that can result in redness and swelling.
Carolina Wolf Spider Identification
Carolina wolf spiders measure ¼ inch to two inches or larger. They are brown, gray, black or tan with a dark stripe on the abdomen. This coloring makes it easy for them to blend in with their surroundings, protecting them from predators and helping them catch prey. They have long, hairy legs and eight eyes arranged in three rows. The bottom row has four small eyes, the middle row has two very large eyes and the top row has two medium-size eyes. It’s easy to see these spiders in the dark because their eyes will reflect light. They are mistaken for brown recluses because they look similar, but with a little practice it will be easy to tell the difference between the two. Carolina wolf spiders live outside in leafy, grassy areas and some even create burrows. They live low to the ground and do not weave webs like most other spiders to capture their prey. They will hunt their prey with their strong bodies, sharp eyesight and high sensitivity to vibrations. Try not to squish a wolf spider because the female carries her spiderlings on her abdomen. Squishing one may send hundreds of them running in all different directions. The best way to deal with wolf spider is to use glue traps to get rid of them. You can also use a glass and a piece of paper and release it outside.
Wolf Spider Infestation Prevention
Even though they can’t hurt you, these spiders are big and ugly and most of us don’t want them crawling around our homes. The good news about wolf spiders is that they are solitary and like to hunt alone. This means if you see one, there is a good chance it is the only one.
• Keep your yard, garage, attic and basement clean and clutter-free. The more clutter there is, the more hiding places there are.
• Seal any cracks and crevices around your home. Use caulking and inspect screens for any damage.
• Inspect items like boxes and bags before they are brought indoors. Items stored for long periods of time may have spiders hiding in them
Spider Inspections, Extermination & Control in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
Take steps to avoid dealing with spiders that can possibly harm a family member. If you do suspect you’re dealing with an infestation, contact professionals. Serious infestations need professional help for the best possible treatment. Contact A Five Star Termite & Pest Control today!
