How to Keep Wolf Spiders

Many species of spiders don't make good pets because they construct webs. However, wolf spiders actively hunt for their prey, requiring no webs to capture it. Designing a habitat as close to your wolf spider's natural environment as possible can extend its longevity. You can collect a wolf spider around your home, as they live throughout the United States. They like to inhabit gardens, particularly beneath rocks and around plant debris. Only one wolf spider should be kept in an enclosure at a time.

Things You'll Need

  • Gardening gloves
  • Garden soil
  • 2 1/2-gallon aquarium
  • Bark
  • Tight-fitting lid
  • Cotton ball
  • Water
  • Crickets
  • Flies
  • Caterpillars
  • Water bottle
  • Paper towels
  • Large plastic container
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Instructions

    • 1

      The University of Kentucky Department of Entomology recommends laying soil down in a 2 1/2-gallon aquarium. Provide hiding areas by placing bark in the aquarium to allow your wolf spider a haven into which to retreat. Keep a tight-fitting lid on your aquarium to prevent your spider from escaping.

    • 2

      Dampen a cotton ball in water and place it in a corner of your aquarium. This provides moisture for your wolf spider. Replace the cotton ball every two to three days.

    • 3
      Provide soft-bodied insects for wolf spiders' nourishment.

      Feed your wolf spider one to two crickets or flies, every two days. If you can find insects in your yard, such as caterpillars, wolf spiders will enjoy them.

    • 4
      Light misting will keep your wolf spider comfortable.

      Spritz your aquarium with a water bottle daily to create humidity. However, don't drench the aquarium, as this isn't good for your wolf spider.

    • 5

      Replace the soil in your habitat every two months. Spritz a paper towel with water to wipe down the sides of the aquarium. Use a plastic container with a lid to house your spider while cleaning its aquarium. Ensure that you puncture holes in the container's lid.