Eating Habits of the Wolf Spider

Eating Habits of the Wolf Spider. Wolf spiders are found worldwide in a wide array of habitats ranging from prairies, woodlands, wetlands and around suburban homes. Unlike most spiders, the wolf spider does not spin a web to catch prey; instead, it digs a burrow in the ground and ambushes its prey. Some wolf spiders covers the entrance to their lairs with a lid while at home for their protection from other predators.

Predation Method

Besides lying in wait, it is also not uncommon for a wolf spider to chase after its prey. The wolf spider catches its target with its legs and will flip over onto its back before piercing its prey with its fangs and injecting it with venom.

Venom

Although the wolf spider is venomous, its poison is not lethal to humans. The purpose of the venom is to release enzymes into the prey's body to begin dissolving its victim's organs. The wolf spider then sucks the liquefied organs through its hollow fangs.

Prey

Wolf spiders will eat a wide variety of insects and reptiles as part of their diet. They commonly eat crickets, flies, cockroaches, cane toads, earwigs, ants and beetles. Wolf spiders are even known to be cannibalistic when other food sources are scarce.

References

• Lakeside Nature Center: Critter Corner - Wolf Spider
• Australian Museum: Wolf Spiders
• Access Excellence: Housing Spiders in the Classroom
• Desert USA: The Wolf Spider