Wolf Spider Control in Warminster, PA

Many people fear finding wolf spiders in their Warminster homes and offices, but their appearance is more threatening than their personality. In fact, several spiders closely resemble the wolf spider due to their large size, dark color, and dense hair. However, the wolf spider tends to have the most fearsome reputation.

This reputation may stem from its name. Some believe wolf spiders are named for their heavy fur, but this is incorrect. A scientist once theorized that these spiders hunted in packs like wolves. Although this theory was later disproven, the name remained. Wolf spiders are adept hunters but hunt alone.

For those who dislike encountering these large spiders indoors, calling an exterminator ensures a swift and effective solution. Managing spider populations requires an integrated pest management approach, which includes reducing their food supply, ultimately driving them elsewhere.

What Do Wolf Spiders Look Like?

Size: Up to 1.5 inches in length
Color: Brown, grey, black, and sometimes orange, with striped, spotted, or monochromatic patterns
Characteristics: Large size, hairy legs, often mistaken for brown recluses or tarantulas

Where Do Wolf Spiders Live?

Wolf spiders are commonly found under rocks, in brushy areas, and across North America, making encounters frequent. They seek shelter in:

Woodpiles and yard debris
Dark, cluttered spaces like garages, sheds, attics, basements, and crawl spaces
Rarely disturbed rooms inside homes, including bedrooms

What Do Wolf Spiders Eat?

Wolf spiders are not picky eaters. Their diet includes:

Various insects and invertebrates, even those larger than themselves
Large females have been observed eating amphibians and reptiles
Unlike other spiders, they do not build webs but instead actively hunt

Some wolf spiders hunt by pouncing on prey, while others construct tunnels to ambush insects.

Do Wolf Spiders Cause Damage?

Wolf spiders themselves do not damage property, but the pests they prey on—such as termites and carpenter ants—can be destructive. If these insects are in your home, they may cause significant structural damage while also attracting wolf spiders.

Are Wolf Spiders Aggressive?

Wolf spiders are shy and prefer to avoid human interaction. They tend to hide in dark, cluttered spaces, making them seem more intimidating than they actually are.

Do Wolf Spiders Carry Disease?

Wolf spiders are not considered poisonous, though their bite transmits a mild toxin. Symptoms may include:

Mild pain, itchiness, and swelling, usually resolving in a few days
Rare allergic reactions, which may include fever, dizziness, and difficulty breathing

Those experiencing severe reactions should seek medical attention.

How to Detect Wolf Spiders

Signs of wolf spider presence include:

Seeing a spider carrying a brood of young on her abdomen
Baby spiders "ballooning" on silken threads indoors or outside
Frequent encounters with large, hairy spiders in living spaces

How to Prevent Wolf Spiders

To reduce the likelihood of wolf spider infestations:

Keep bedrooms and living spaces clutter-free
Clean up storage areas
Hire pest management services to eliminate their food sources
Dust, vacuum, and mop regularly
Store food in sealed containers
Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible
Install high-quality screens on doors and windows

How to Treat for Spiders

Effective spider treatment involves removing all webs. DIY treatments are often ineffective, so professional pest control services are recommended.

At Newtown Termite & Pest Control, Inc., we take your spider problems seriously. Our comprehensive treatment process includes targeting wall voids, attics, cracks, and crevices using specialized gels, dusts, and other pest control products.

Schedule a FREE inspection today.

Get the Facts

Commonly Encountered PA Spiders

Courtesy: Newtown Termite & Pest Control, Inc.