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How To Spot The Difference Between A Wolf And Brown Recluse Spider
By CHRISTY RAE AMMONS
Though they are virtually harmless to humans, wolf spiders are often mistaken for brown recluse spiders, which have venom that can be dangerous.
One easy way to tell the difference is by their eyes. While wolf spiders have eight eyes like most arachnids, the brown recluse only has six.
Brown recluse spiders have a signature dark violin-shaped marking on their backs, which typically begins behind their head. It may not be visible in younger brown recluses.
While many arachnids have banded legs or visible hair, brown recluse spiders have neither. They can range in color from brown or tan to various shades of yellow.
Wolf spiders, on the other hand, have markings that appear more like lines. They are usually less than 2 inches long, visibly hairy, and secure their food by hunting.
Female wolf spiders may be spotted with their eggs or new young on their backs. These arachnids can be brown, gray, or multicolored.
Brown recluse spider bites can cause fever, chills, itching, nausea, painful sores, and even a rare seizure. Wolf spider bites are unlikely to cause any concerning symptoms.