Can You Eat Wolf Spiders?

Wolf spiders are predators and help keep insect populations under control. They are good at catching insects but do not pose a threat to humans or property. The only time they might bite is if they are cornered.

Wolf spiders have two large eyes on the top of their heads. This tapetum lucidum structure allows the spider to see in the dark.

The spider also has four smaller eyes in the front row. Two of these are situated above the mouth and the other two are in a V-pattern. Their abdomen contains glands for silk production.

Some wolf spider species are nocturnal. While others are omnivorous. That means they eat other spiders, insects, reptiles and even small mammals.

Female wolf spiders carry an egg sac attached to their spinnerets. When the sac hatches, hundreds of spiderlings leave the mother. After several days, they will climb onto the mother’s back.

In addition to preying on other spiders and insects, wolf spiders eat spider-eating birds. Birds have a wide range of appetites and prefer plants, seeds, and meat to other kinds of prey.

Unlike tarantulas, wolf spiders do not make webs. Instead, they hunt at night. If they find a prey, they run at a fast speed and capture it. It is important not to disturb them or they might bite you.

Wolf spiders are not poisonous, but they do have a weak venom. Their bite is not dangerous to people or pets, and it may cause some swelling and itching.