How to Take Care of a Wolf Spider

Wolf spiders are medium sized, ground-dwelling spiders. They do not build webs and require relatively little maintenance as pets. While wolf spider bites are not usually harmful, you should not touch or pick them up as the bites are painful and can be dangerous to people who are allergic to them. Wolf spiders make great pets for classrooms as they will subdue prey and run around a lot. They are easy to acquire and can live for three or more years.

Things You'll Need

  • Ventilated terrarium or cage
  • Crickets or worms
  • Soil
  • Spray bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      House your wolf spider in a ventilated cage or terrarium from which it cannot escape. Wolf spiders are very fast and may try to run out when you open the cage. For long-term care, use a large cage that the spider can run around in.

    • 2

      Line the cage with untreated soil or dirt. Scatter leaves, rocks or other debris around the cage so the spider can hide under them. Never use trash, paper or objects that might contain chemicals that can harm your spider.

    • 3

      Feed your spider crickets or worms. Keeping crickets in the cage lets the spider hunt and catch prey whenever it gets hungry. Don't feed the spider roaches or beetles. You can also feed a wolf spider other, smaller spiders.

    • 4

      Spray mists of water into the spider's cage on a daily basis. While wolf spiders get most of their water from prey, a little extra moisture is ideal. Do not soak the cage or pour water into it.