| The Slinky Wolf Spider |
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Wolf Spider Puzzle
Wolf Spider Coloring
Where are the Wolf Spiders?
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| GLOSSARY |
| Abdomen |
The posterior region of the body behind the thorax. |
| Anterior |
Situated toward the front.
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| Cephalothorax |
The united front two segments of a spider or insects body.
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| Posterior |
Situated toward the back.
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| Silk |
A long filament produced by various organisms.
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| Tapetum |
A layer of reflective cells in the back of the eye. |
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| Photo by James O. Howell, University of Georgia |
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Photo courtesy of Phil Myers, University of Michigan
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The Slinky Wolf Spider
The slinky Wolf Spider is one of the most common spiders in Ohio.
When in search of wolf spiders, do not look for a web. Nearly half of all spiders do not build webs, including wolf spiders. They simply use their silk for safety lines and to wrap their egg cases.
Found in every type of habitat in Ohio State Parks, this spider is easily recognized by the shape of its body. The wolf spider has a stout build with strong, thick legs and a cephalothorax and abdomen of nearly the same size.
The wolf spider has 4 small anterior eyes in a row, with 2 larger posterior eyes above them and 2 more eyes a bit further back on their heads. These eyes are easily seen when using a magnifying glass.
Most spiders have poor vision, but the wolf spider has good eyesight which it uses for hunting and forceful exchanges. The 2 eyes on the top posterior of the head are so the spiders can see above and behind them. This helps them avoid being captured.
The best time to go in search of wolf spiders is at night using a flashlight. The light will reflect off the tapetum in the spider’s eyes. The tapetum helps increase the amount of light entering the wolf spiders eyes so they can see better at night.
The wolf spider’s good eyesight, speed and strength enable it to hunt for its food. Its favorite foods include flies, crickets, worms and other spiders.
Wolf spiders commonly grow to lengths of 2 inches. They are covered with coarse hair that is typically gray to brown in color. The wolf spiders have different color markings and lines along their bodies and legs.
The Wolf Spider sure is slinky, isn’t it?
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