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The Tiger Wolf Spider: A Deadly But Beautiful Creature

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Tiger wolf spider, doesn’t the name sound intriguing?

Well, here is another compelling spider species of spider to pique your curiosity, and I’m here to fill you in on all there is to know about the interesting Tiger wolf spider.

Check out the information below!

What is a Tiger Wolf Spider?

The Tiger Wolf Spider is a type of spider that is found in woodland and forest areas. It belongs to the genus Tigrosa and the family Lycosidae, which includes other types of wolf spiders.

Initially, Tiger Wolf Spiders were known as the Hogna aspersa; however, now their scientific nomenclature is changed to Tigrosa aspersa.

Tiger Wolf Spider

Anatomically, these spiders are typically large, with some growing up to 2 inches in size. These critters are generally brown or black in color and have distinctive markings on their backs. In fact, they are designated as Tiger Wolf Spiders due to their distinctive markings.

Besides their biological name, Tiger Wolf Spider is also known as the Aspersa spider, woodland giant wolf spider, giant wolf spider, and tigrosa wolf spider.

Aspersa spider Basics

Wolf Spider - Baby Spiders

The general defining characteristics of The Tiger Wolf Spider: A Deadly, but Beautiful Creature, are enlisted below:

Tiger Wolf Spider Identification details

The Tiger Wolf Spider is a large spider that is often mistaken for the Pisaurina mira, the nursery web spider. They are both brown in color and have similar physical features. However, there are a few key differences that can help in the identification of the Tiger Wolf Spider. 

For instance, this distinct species of spider can be easily identified by its carapace, which consists of a brownish or black color contrasting with a distinctive yellow stripe that extends from the anterior eyes to the cephalothorax.

This stripe helps camouflage the spider in its woodland environment.

Additionally, the underside of the abdomen is marked with several black spots. Palps are located on each side of the spider’s jaw. 

Tigrosa aspersa ranges in size from 10–14 mm, and their legs can be up to 50 mm.

The males also have several differences from their female counterparts. For example, they are typically much larger and can exhibit different behaviors.

Behavior

Tiger wolf spiders are fascinating creatures that live in burrows and can be different shades of black and tan. They are mostly nocturnal, meaning they hunt at night, and their diet consists of insects, other spiders, and even small vertebrates.

In general, the behavior of Tiger Wolf spiders range high on the scale of shyness; they usually bite humans only when threatened.

Diet

The Tiger Wolf Spider is a predatory arachnid that feeds primarily on insects. This spider group includes generalist predators, meaning they will eat a variety of different prey items.

Some of their favorite prey include ants, beetles, earwigs, worms, spiders, roaches, pill bugs, aphids, millipedes, and centipedes.

What’s more, these spiders are solitary creatures with two main hunting methods: ambush and pursuit.

When it ambushes its prey, the spider will use its camouflage to blend in with its surroundings before striking. Pursuit hunting is typically used when the spider’s prey is smaller; the spider will run after its prey until it catches up to it.

Location Information

When it comes to the details of location well, the Tiger Wolf Spider is a large spider that can be found in woodlands, fields, beneath rocks, and other outdoor areas.

During the fall season, tiger wolf spiders often enter homes as they are looking for a warmer space. They prefer to build their webs in quiet, undisturbed places such as woodpiles, sheds, and garages.

Tiger wolves are not aggressive and will usually run away when they are encountered. However, if you see one in your home, it is best to leave it alone and contact a professional to remove it.

Is the tigrosa wolf spider Dangerous?

Wolf spider, Lycosa pseudoannualata, Lycosidae, Pune, Maharashtra, India

Although tigrosa wolf spiders are venomous, they only bite humans if they feel threatened or when trying to capture prey. The bites from these spiders are generally not fatal to humans, but they can cause great pain and swelling.

Bite wounds should be cleaned and disinfected as secondary bacterial infections may occur.

Signs of giant wolf spiders Infestation

The most common sign of a giant wolf spider infestation is the appearance of tiger wolf spiders. These spiders are large and easily recognizable, so if you see any around your home, you can be sure that there is an infestation.

If giant wolf spiders are found invading a structure, it is best to contact a local pest management agency. They will be able to identify the spider and take steps to remove them from the premises.

Do The Tiger Wolf Spider Bite? 

Well, the answer to this question is based on the natural instinct of animals to protect themselves when feeling threatened.

As a result, just like the other spiders in its spider tribe (the wolf spider), the tiger wolf spider is capable of attacking humans if provoked or when it perceives a threat.

How to Identify The Tiger Wolf Spider Bite

Spider bites can be difficult to identify, as they may look like other bug bites, although spider bites are often more painful than other types of bug bites.

For instance, in case of a bite inflicted by a black widow or brown recluse spider, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.

However, when it comes to Tiger Wolf spiders, these critters are generally timid and will only bite humans when feeling threatened.

The bites of tiger wolf spiders are not usually harmful to humans, but there have been a few cases where people have had an allergic reaction to the venom.

In usual circumstances, the bite may cause some swelling and redness around the area, but it is not generally dangerous. 

If you notice any more symptoms, you must see a doctor.

Are Tiger Wolf Spiders Bite Poisonous?

Although Tiger Wolf spiders are venomous, their bite is not lethal; however, it can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort.

However, in people with low immunity or sensitivity to an allergic reaction, the spider’s venom, a neurotoxin, can enter the body, causing nausea, vomiting, and respiratory problems. In some cases, it can also be deadly.

Treatment for Tiger Wolf Spider Bites

Though tiger wolf spider bites are not intense, you can undertake the following actions when dealing with the same:

  • You should use soap and lukewarm water to wash the area around the bite. To prevent infection, keep the area dry.
  • To lessen the discomfort and swelling, apply an ice pack or cool towel to the wound.
  • Take over-the-counter medications for swelling and itching.

See a doctor if the bite begins to cause concern for your health.

Dealing with a woodland giant wolf spider

tiger wolf spider

Woodland giant wolf spiders are generally shy and will not bother humans unless they feel threatened. However, these critters can be a nuisance when they enter homes, but there are ways to prevent them from coming indoors:

Discourage the critters.

You can undertake certain measures to discourage Tigrosa aspersa from taking up residence in your home or yard.

First, clean up any piles of leaves or other debris where they might be hiding. You can also use a broom or vacuum cleaner to remove them from tight spaces.

Furthermore, seal off any entry points into your home and make sure the critters can’t get in. You can use steel wool, caulk, or a combination of both to close off the openings. You should try to discourage the spiders by removing their food source.

Set spider traps. 

Spider traps can be very effective for catching spiders, especially larger ones like the Tiger Wolf Spider. There are a variety of different spider traps that you can use.

Furthermore, the traps should be placed in areas where there is high traffic. This will ensure that the traps are effective in capturing spiders.

Besides that, spider traps should be checked and changed often. This will ensure that the spiders caught are disposed of properly and that the traps remain effective.

Use insecticide. 

Insecticides are a great way to get rid of spiders, but it’s important to keep in mind that many of them contain harmful chemicals or toxins. These chemicals can be unsafe for both kids and pets, so it’s important to take precautions before using them.

Therefore, read the label directions carefully so that you know how much product to use and when to apply it.

Natural Methods

You can also use natural methods to eliminate tiger wolf spiders.

One effective method is using peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is a prominent natural pesticide and will deter spiders from your home. You can spray it around your home’s perimeter or put it in a diffuser.

In addition, you can use vinegar. It is effective in keeping spiders away.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this guide was helpful in acknowledging you with interesting facts about this Deadly but Beautiful Creature- The Tiger Wolf Spider!

About the author

A biotechnologist by profession and a passionate pest researcher. I have been one of those people who used to run away from cockroaches and rats due to their pesky features, but then we all get that turn in life when we have to face something.