What in the World Are Wolf Spiders?

Before we proceed, this is probably a good time to remind you of the difference between insects and arachnids. Spiders are arachnids; ants are insects. The easiest distinction between these two animals relies on the number of legs. When fully grown, arachnids have four pairs of legs (eight legs total) while insects only have three pairs (6 legs total). Other arachnids include ticks and mites.

Wolf spiders, although quite large and robust in size (one to two inches in length), are still able to move remarkably fast attributed to their long legs. To protect themselves from potential danger, they have evolved a rather plain and camouflaging appearance unlike flashier-looking spiders. Wolf spiders generally range from brown to black to gray colors. They also are quite hairy adding to their menacing and do-not-dare-touch quality. Often confused with the brown recluse, they are differentiated from the former by the absence of a violin-shaped marking found at the back of the head.

In addition to these traits, wolf spiders reportedly have eight eyes, which are very efficient in detecting light during nighttime further enhancing their reputation as awesome hunters. Imagine, walking down a darkened street when all of a sudden eight beady, fluorescent eyes stare unblinkingly at you! Yikes, definitely a creepy moment.

When winter sets in, it is common for wolf spiders to enter households as they look for warmth; thus, you are bound to meet one in your lifetime. They usual stay in dark rooms of the house such as the garage or attic. Nevertheless, you should not totally panic. Yes, they are daunting in size and they have an intimidating outer facade, plus they come with eerie green eyes, but all these traits are necessary for them to ward off potential attacks, because the truth is, they are not fatally venomous. Thus, preventing attacks by intimidation is crucial to a their continued survival.

Do not go on thinking that wolf spiders do not excrete venom because they do; not just the particularly dangerous kind. Indeed, if you are bitten by one, common signs include swelling, redness, pain, and itchiness. Extreme soreness and ache can be felt in severe cases or if the affected person has a low tolerance for pain.

Robert L. is the creator and writer of Absolute Predator a website created for those looking to learn more about pure wildlife predators. To learn more about African lions, lion cubs, Komodo Dragons and other various predators visit his site at http://www.absolutepredator.com/

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