About Wolf Spiders

Wolf spiders (Lycosidae family) are among the largest spiders in Boston, with some species growing over an inch long. They are typically brown, gray, or tan with distinctive stripes or markings, and unlike many spiders, they do not spin webs to catch prey. Instead, wolf spiders actively hunt insects and are often seen darting across floors or walls.

Risks & Concerns

Although wolf spiders are not aggressive and rarely bite, their large size, hairy bodies, and quick movements make them intimidating. They typically stay outdoors but can wander inside through cracks, gaps, or open doors, especially into basements, garages, or ground-level rooms.

Prevention & Control

To reduce encounters, seal cracks and entry points, repair door sweeps, and keep outdoor vegetation trimmed back from the foundation. Since wolf spiders hunt insects, managing other pest populations indoors also helps discourage them. While harmless, their appearance alone often leads homeowners and tenants to seek professional assistance.