Wolf Spider vs Grass Spider

Serving Albuquerque and Taos

Arachnophobia is a common fear, and in Santa Fe, NM, where some spiders wield painful, venomous bites, anxiety about these eight-legged creatures is understandable. While a few species can indeed pose health risks, the majority of spiders in New Mexico, and globally, are more intimidating in appearance than in actual danger.

But what about wolf spiders and grass spiders? These two spiders have menacing appearances, but are they serious threats to our health? And how can we tell them apart? Read on to learn the differences between wolf spiders and grass spiders from our technicians at New Mexico Pest Control.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE: WOLF SPIDERS VS GRASS SPIDERS

Wolf spiders and grass spiders can have very similar appearances in Santa Fe NM. Here are some features that set the two apart:

• Size and Appearance: Wolf spiders, with their larger and wider bodies, stand out against the comparatively slender frame of grass spiders.
• Web Construction: A quick web check can reveal their identity—grass spiders meticulously craft funnel-shaped webs close to the ground, while wolf spiders, skilled hunters, eschew web-spinning.
• Eyes and Markings: The eyes of a wolf spider, notably larger than the rest, distinguish them from grass spiders. Dark and pronounced markings are a signature feature of wolf spiders, setting them apart from their grass-dwelling counterparts.
• Reproductive Habits: A unique trait of wolf spiders is the maternal responsibility they carry, literally, on their backs—egg sacs secured while on the move.

FAQS ABOUT WOLF SPIDER BITES

Are you curious about wolf spiders? Below are a few answers to the most common frequently asked questions about wolf spiders.

DO WOLF SPIDERS BITE?

Yes, wolf spiders are capable of biting. However, they are not aggressive and typically bite only in self-defense or when they feel threatened.

What happens when a wolf spider bites a human?

When a wolf spider bites a human, the effects are generally mild. It’s important to note that wolf spider venom is not considered highly dangerous to humans. The bite may result in localized symptoms, such as redness, swelling, and pain.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A WOLF SPIDER BITE ON A HUMAN?

The symptoms of a wolf spider bite may include:

• Redness: The bitten area may become red and inflamed.
• Swelling: Some individuals may experience swelling around the bite site.
• Pain: Pain at the bite site is a common reaction to wolf spider bites.

ARE WOLF SPIDER BITES DANGEROUS?

In general, wolf spider bites are not considered dangerous or poisonous to humans. While the symptoms can be uncomfortable, they typically do not pose a significant health risk. It’s worth noting that severe reactions to wolf spider bites are rare, and most people recover without complications.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF BITTEN BY A WOLF SPIDER?

If bitten by a wolf spider and the symptoms are mild, basic first aid measures such as cleaning the bite area with mild soap and water and applying a cold compress may suffice. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is recommended.

FAQS ABOUT GRASS SPIDER BITES

Below are some of the most common frequently asked questions about grass spiders.

DO GRASS SPIDERS BITE?

Yes, grass spiders are capable of biting. However, they are not aggressive and typically bite only in self-defense when they feel threatened.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A GRASS SPIDER BITES A HUMAN?

When a grass spider bites a human, the effects are generally mild. The venom of grass spiders is not considered dangerous to humans. The bite may result in localized symptoms, such as swelling, soreness, and itchiness.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A GRASS SPIDER BITE ON A HUMAN?

The symptoms of a grass spider bite may include:

• Swelling: The bitten area may exhibit swelling, which is usually confined to the immediate vicinity of the bite.
• Soreness: Some individuals may experience soreness around the bite site.
• Itchiness: Itchiness is a common reaction to grass spider bites.

ARE GRASS SPIDER BITES DANGEROUS?

In general, grass spider bites are not considered dangerous to humans. While the symptoms can be uncomfortable, they typically do not pose a significant health risk. However, individual reactions may vary, and in rare cases, some people may be more sensitive to the venom.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF BITTEN BY A GRASS SPIDER?

If bitten by a grass spider and the symptoms are mild, basic first aid measures such as cleaning the bite area with mild soap and water and applying a cold compress may suffice. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention is recommended.

AVOID SPIDER BITES IN SANTA FE NM

Although it’s rare to experience a wolf spider bite or a grass spider bite, both will not hesitate to defend themselves if they see it necessary, and some people are simply victims of poor circumstances. If you have these spiders or different ones running rampant on your property, talk to your local pest control company. The spider control team at New Mexico Pest Control is equipped and able to remove all kinds of spiders from homes and businesses, as well as put measures in place to keep them out in the first place. Contact us today for a free quote!