Hobbies And Interests
Hogna Genus
The genus Hogna includes the Carolina wolf spider (Hogna carolinensis). Measuring 3 inches across, this burrow-dwelling spider hunts at night. They make burrows in woods, leaf litter and gardens. Colors differ but are usually mottled gray-brown. Males die before winter, but females and juveniles seek winter shelter in or near human habitation. All species of Hogna are large, sturdy spiders. At first glance they resemble tarantulas but are less hairy. Hogna aspersa resembles the Carolina wolf spider but is smaller with a distinct yellow stripe between the eyes. A large, reddish-brown example common in Florida is the Field Wolf spider (Hogna lenta).
Rabid Wolf Spider
Like the Hogna genus, Rabid wolf spiders (Rabidosa genus) are most common in the Eastern states. They are smaller at about 1-inch long and have distinct stripes. Despite the name, these spiders are not dangerous. One type of rabid wolf spider, Rabidosa rabida, is found in Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska as well as along the Eastern seaboard. Often called Wandering spiders, these are found in cotton fields, woods, under rocks and inside homes.
Thin-legged Wolf Spiders
Thin-legged Wolf Spiders (genus Pardosa) are large- to medium-sized spiders that are thin-legged compared to other wolf spiders with more tarantula-like proportions. Some have banded legs and striped bodies; others have one solid body color. Markings differ within the same species or may be similar between species. Lacking reliable distinguishing marks, it is difficult for anyone but an expert to identify the different species of Pardosa.
Kauai Cave Wolf Spider
Unique to a handful of Hawaiian caves, Kauai cave wolf spiders are blind cave spiders. Reddish brown in color, they are an endangered species in part because the small crustaceans (amphipods) upon which they feed are endangered. Both creatures are impacted by human damage to the cave system. Like their more common cousins, cave wolf spiders carry their young on their backs, aided by special claws on the baby's legs. Lacking eyes, they rely on scent to stalk their prey.
Small Wolf Spiders
The Rustic wolf spider (Trochosa ruricolor) is tarantula-like in shape but only around one-half inch long. The Ground wolf spider (Trochosa terricola) is similar. Sand-dwelling Beach wolf spiders (Arctosa species) are found on beaches throughout North America. Trochosa and Arctosa are unusual among wolf spiders because they bury their egg sacs in silk-lined tunnels.
Warning
Wolf spiders will bite if handled or cornered, but the venom is not dangerous. However, some smaller wolf spiders resemble the brown recluse, a spider with a necrotic (ulcerating) bite. A brown recluse bite needs medical attention. If bitten and unsure of identification, seek medical help, taking the spider with you if possible.