Wolf spiders are quite common in Texas and other parts of the world, but because of their hunting habits they are rarely seen by humans.

Pestworld says these spiders hunt a night and rest in sheltered places during the day, which is why we don't see them very often.  (The photo below was taken at a retail store in Lubbock.)

Wolf spider biology

wolf spider
Doug Brannson
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The wolf spider's body can grow to almost and inch and a half. When you add in the legs, they can look quite large in the palm of your hand.

There's over 100 species of wolf spiders found in North America and they tend to have colors similar to their surroundings.

How wolf spiders hunt

Now, here's what makes the wolf spider unique to other spiders. They don't actually use webs to catch their prey. Instead, they chase them down by running after them. That's what can freak people out; wolf spiders are just really fast.

Are wolf spiders dangerous?

The good news for arachnophobes is that wolf spiders rarely bite unprovoked. Their venom is not lethal, but can be painful to humans.

Wolf spiders tend to stay on the floor level of buildings along the walls, under stones, in firewood piles, leaves and other debris. They're not often found inside a home.

There's over 100 species of wolf spiders found in North America and they tend to have colors similar to their surroundings.

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