Wolf Spider

The wolf spider (Lycosidae family) in Austin, TX, is a common and resilient arachnid known for its hunting prowess and distinctive appearance. Typically brown or gray, with patterned markings, it can grow up to 1.5 inches in body length. Unlike web-building spiders, wolf spiders actively hunt their prey, stalking and pouncing on insects, which they catch with incredible speed. They are usually seen at night, as they prefer dark, sheltered areas like leaf litter, rocks, or under debris. Though they may appear intimidating, wolf spiders are non-aggressive to humans and are beneficial for controlling pest populations.