- Wildlife
- Invertebrates
- Spiders
- Wolf Spider
northeastwildlife.co.uk
About
The Wolf Spider is a medium-sized spider that hunts on the ground during the day - chasing down its prey and leaping on it, just like a Wolf. It frequents gardens and grasslands, and can often be seen sunbathing or running across the ground. The female carries her round egg-sac underneath the back end of her body (attached to the 'spinnerets', the organs which produce silk) and will carry the young on her back for a few days after they hatch.
How to identify
The Wolf Spider shows various patterns of dark grey, brown and black, and is quite hairy. There are several species of Pardosa wolf spider which are very difficult to tell apart.
Where to find it
Widespread
Habitats
When to find it
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
How can people help
Spiders are beneficial in the garden as they help to keep populations of pests in check. You can encourage spiders into your garden by providing logs, stone piles and less tidy areas for them to live, feed and breed in. In turn, other species will be attracted to the garden as spiders are a food source for many animals, including mammals and birds, providing a vital link in the food chain. To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.