Wolf Spider |
Photo © by Jaime Gonzalez |
Wolf Spider Year round resident of the Katy Prairie Description Great variation in size within this family (Lycosidae); common species typically range from 1/2" to 2"; the species seen above is a large wolf spider which measured approximately 4" in diameter (with outstretched legs) Habitat Lycosids occur in a wide range of habitats: from grasslands to mountain tops,beaches, deserts and forests. This highly adaptable family is represented by 2200 species worldwide. Food Wide range of invertebrates including other spiders and insects Range Wolf spiders occur on every continent except Antarctica. Discussion Wolf spiders are common and abundant members of the prairie community. They are named wolf spiders because many of the species within this family are free-ranging hunters which rely on excellent vision and speed to capture other invertebrates instead of a web. |
