In our 40-plus years of experience as Atlanta exterminators, we have dealt with all sorts, shapes and species of insects, pests and bugs. Although many of our run-ins have been with the typical North American insect population, we’ve encountered our share of exotic and dangerous creepy crawlers.Many insects look and act alike to the typical homeowner. Below are some characteristics of the wolf spider that set it apart from other members of the eight-legged world.
Appearance
A hairy arachnid, this relatively large (up to 35 millimeters in length) insect is often mistaken for its cousin, the tarantula. Although it can rear up on its hind legs and expose its huge fangs when threatened, its bite is not known to cause any serious harm in humans. Although painful, wolf spider bites are not lethal. Because of its size and hairy appearance, however, the wolf spider will likely elicit a shriek from most humans.The wolf spider is also sometimes confused with the brown recluse spider. Wolf spiders have shorter legs and a more robust appearance when compared to the brown recluse spider and other spiders. Black, gray and brown markings are also typically found on its body.
Habitat
There are nearly 200 known species that belong to the family of wolf spiders. Wolf spiders can be found practically anywhere that there are smaller insects to prey on. They are found in a number of different habitats including prairie areas, woodlands, inland shrub areas, coastal forests and riverbank gravel beds. Some have even been spotted in suburban gardens.
Behavior
Wolf spiders are predatory, but they do not trap their victims in spider webs like other spiders because they do not spin webs. Instead, they move swiftly and precisely when attacking their prey. They feed mostly on insects and other smaller spiders. Wolf spiders are nocturnal hunters, although they can sometimes be seen during the day.
Dwelling
Wolf spiders live in burrows whose openings may be plugged with small rocks and twigs during rainy season. When the weather starts to turn cold, they head indoors in search of the warmth and relative safety of human homes. When wolf spiders get inside, they tend to hide around doorways, windows and houseplants. They are also commonly found in basements and garages. Homeowners should take the time to seal off cracks, crevices, and gaps in their home structure to protect their house from these pests. Vacuuming regularly, especially in hard to reach places where wolf spiders may hide, is another useful method to protect your house from these critters. Additionally, you can wipe surfaces of your home with lemon juice to repel wolf spiders. Spiders detest lemon juice and will avoid stepping on areas covered in it. We offer all our customers effective pest control services and excellent customer care. As veteran Atlanta pest control experts, we offer a wide array of professional and cutting-edge services, including pest and termite inspections, pest removal and long-lasting Atlanta bug control. Get in touch with us, and give your family a safe and pest-free home environment.
