Do Wolf Spiders Eat Brown Recluse Spiders?
Yes, wolf spiders can and do eat brown recluse spiders under certain conditions. As opportunistic hunters, wolf spiders are known to prey on a wide variety of insects and other spiders, including potentially dangerous species like the brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa). Here are some of the dynamics between the two:
Diet and Hunting Behavior
Wolf spiders (family Lycosidae) are active, ground-dwelling hunters that do not use webs to catch prey. Instead, they rely on their speed, strength, and keen eyesight to chase and overpower insects and other arthropods.
Brown recluse spiders are more passive predators. They construct irregular, sticky webs in dark, undisturbed areas and wait for prey to come near.
Since wolf spiders are aggressive predators and relatively large in size, they are capable of subduing other spiders, including brown recluses, especially when competing for territory or food.
Habitat Overlap and Encounters
Both species may coexist in overlapping habitats—particularly in indoor environments like basements, crawlspaces, and garages in warmer regions of the U.S.
While wolf spiders are often more mobile and exploratory, brown recluses tend to remain hidden. Still, encounters can occur, especially if food is scarce or one spider wanders into the other’s territory.
Predatory Interactions
If a wolf spider encounters a brown recluse, it may see it as a viable food source. The wolf spider’s speed and physical prowess generally give it the upper hand.
However, brown recluse spiders are venomous and capable of delivering a damaging bite—so predation is not risk-free for the wolf spider. Still, in natural settings, the wolf spider’s size and agility typically make it the dominant threat.
Pest Control Consideration
The presence of wolf spiders might actually help suppress brown recluse populations naturally. However, relying on one spider to control another is not a dependable strategy, especially indoors. Both can become nuisances, and wolf spiders can also cause fear or distress, even though they are not dangerous to humans.
While not their primary food source, wolf spiders will eat brown recluse spiders if given the opportunity. Their predatory behavior makes them formidable opponents to many other arthropods, including venomous spiders. That said, if you're managing a pest issue involving either species, it's best to use targeted control methods rather than depending on natural predation.