Wolf spiders: agile hunters that swiftly adapt to new and challenging environments. From the urban jungle of New York City to the serene landscapes of upstate New York, wolf spiders have laid their claim on the Empire State, especially within Orange and Rockland counties.
Knowing how to get rid of wolf spiders can save your home from a severe infestation and keep you from stumbling across one of these massive critters at night. Join us as we tell you all the preventative measures you should take to keep these arachnids away from your home.
Wolf Spiders in New York
Wolf spiders (Family: Lycosidae) are a diverse group of arachnids in various habitats across the United States, including New York. These adaptable creatures can be spotted in urban areas, forests, meadows, and your backyard. Their widespread distribution can be attributed to their remarkable ability to adjust to different environments.
In New York, wolf spiders can be encountered throughout the state, from the bustling neighborhoods of New York City to the tranquil forests of the Adirondacks and the rolling farmlands of upstate regions.
They are particularly abundant in rural and wooded areas but are also known to appear in gardens, making them a fascinating find for urban and suburban residents.
Wolf spiders are not your typical “creepy crawlers.” Unlike other spiders that build webs to capture prey, wolf spiders are active hunters and possess distinctive features that set them apart.
They have stout bodies covered in hair and are typically brown or gray, which helps them blend into their surroundings. Their eight eyes are arranged in three rows, giving them excellent vision.
One of the most intriguing features of wolf spiders is their size. Some species can grow as large as an adult’s thumb, making them one of the more sizable spider species in New York.
Wolf spiders are agile and skilled hunters, with some using their silk to create burrows or retreats. These burrows serve as shelter and a place to lay eggs, where the female guards her offspring. After her eggs hatch, the mother carries spiderlings on her back, protecting them until they venture out independently.
How to Get Rid of Wolf Spiders
If you’re looking to get rid of wolf spiders in and around your home, here are some steps to help you manage their presence:
- Reduce Attractiveness: Keep your home clean and clutter-free. Vacuum regularly to remove spiders, their webs, and potential prey insects. Seal cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls to prevent entry. Check for openings around pipes and vents as well. Replace or repair damaged screens on windows and doors. Make sure outdoor lighting doesn’t attract insects, which, in turn, may attract wolf spiders.
- Remove Their Prey: Reduce the number of insects in and around your home by using insect repellents, flytraps, or other pest control methods. Keep outdoor vegetation well-maintained to reduce hiding places for insects and spiders.
- Use Natural Repellents: Some people have reported success with natural spider repellents like citrus-based sprays, vinegar, or essential oils like peppermint or lavender. While these may not eliminate wolf spiders, they could help deter them.
- Traps and Capture: Place sticky traps or glue boards in areas where you’ve seen wolf spiders. This can help reduce their population. If you encounter a wolf spider indoors, capture it using a glass and a piece of paper and release it outside.
- Yard Maintenance: Regularly maintain your yard and garden to discourage wolf spiders from residing around your home. Trim tall grass, weeds, and overgrown vegetation, providing hiding spots and attracting insects. Store firewood, mulch, and debris away from the foundation of your house, as these materials can create ideal habitats for wolf spiders.
- Outdoor Lighting: Consider using outdoor lighting that is less attractive to insects. Yellow or sodium vapor lights are less likely to draw in flying insects, which, in turn, can reduce the spider’s food source and their presence.
- Professional Pest Control: If you have a severe infestation or are uncomfortable dealing with spider control on your own, consider hiring a professional pest control service. They can assess the situation and use appropriate methods to manage the spider population.
- Long-Term Prevention: Continue practicing good hygiene and maintenance to prevent future infestations. Regularly inspect your home for cracks and gaps and seal them promptly.
How to Get Rid of Wolf Spiders with United States Pest Services!
Are you facing a wolf spider infestation in the Rockland and Orange County areas of New York? If so, United States Pest Services is your trusted partner in effectively managing and eliminating this spider species from your home and surroundings.
Our dedicated team is ready to provide you with professional, reliable, and environmentally responsible pest control solutions to help you reclaim your home from these arachnid intruders. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards a pest-free environment.