Do Wolf Spiders Bite? Are They Dangerous?
Short answer: the wolf spider can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects. Wolf spiders can bite if handled, causing pain and swelling like a bee sting, but they're not dangerous.
Risk rating: Can bite or sting
Wolf spiders can bite if handled, causing pain and swelling like a bee sting, but they're not dangerous.
Are wolf spiders dangerous to humans?
Wolf spiders can bite if handled, causing pain and swelling like a bee sting, but they're not dangerous.
On our four-level scale, the wolf spider is rated can bite or sting, meaning it can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects. Wolf Spiders can bite, so it is worth handling them with care.
Are they dangerous to pets?
Wolf Spiders can bite or sting curious pets that paw at them or try to eat them. Watch for swelling, drooling or limping, and call your veterinarian right away if your pet has trouble breathing or a large reaction.
Can they damage your home or garden?
Wolf Spiders don't damage homes or gardens in any meaningful way.
What to do if you are bitten
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cool compress to reduce swelling.
- Use an over-the-counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream for itching, following the label.
- Avoid scratching, which can lead to infection.
Call 911 right away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or a racing heartbeat after a bite or sting.
How to identify wolf spiders
A large, hairy, fast-running spider that hunts on the ground instead of building webs. Females carry their egg sacs and then their spiderlings on their backs.
- Hairy brown or gray body with dark stripes
- Two large, forward-facing eyes in the middle row
- Egg sac attached to the rear or babies riding on the back
| Scientific name | Lycosidae family |
|---|---|
| Group | Spiders |
| Size | 10–35 mm (up to about 1.4 in) |
| Colors | Brown, Gray and Black |
| Legs | 8 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere, Lawn or grass, Basement or garage and Garden or plants |
| Most active | Spring, Summer and Fall |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Can bite or sting |
When you'll see wolf spiders
Wolf Spiders are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere, lawn or grass, basement or garage and garden or plants.
About spiders
The wolf spider is one of the spiders. Spiders have eight legs, two main body sections and no antennae. Almost all spiders have venom to subdue prey, but only a few have venom that matters to people. Many build webs, while others, such as wolf spiders and jumping spiders, hunt on foot.
Spiders go where their food is. A home with lots of spiders usually has plenty of other insects, so general pest control reduces spiders too.
How to avoid problems with wolf spiders
You don't need to control wolf spiders. If one is in the way, gently move it outdoors with a cup and a piece of paper. Wolf spiders can bite if handled, causing pain and swelling like a bee sting, but they're not dangerous.
Frequently asked questions
Do wolf spiders bite?
Yes. Wolf spiders can bite if handled, causing pain and swelling like a bee sting, but they're not dangerous.
Do wolf spiders sting?
No, wolf spiders do not sting.
Are wolf spiders poisonous?
The wolf spider can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects. Wolf spiders can bite if handled, causing pain and swelling like a bee sting, but they're not dangerous.
Where do wolf spiders live?
Wolf Spiders are usually found indoors, in lawns and grass, in basements and garages and in gardens and on plants, and are most active in spring, summer and fall.