Spider Identification

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barceloj Plainsboro Center, NJ Feb 23, 2012

To whom it may concern,

Could you please help me identify this spider? I have found more than one in my basement and with it's legs out is about 1+ inches in diameter.

Regards,
-J

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LadyAshleyR Oakland, MD Feb 23, 2012

Wolf spider of some type. Not dangerous, though of course no one wants spiders in their house.
Bite Symptoms:
"The venom of the wolf spider is poisonous, but usually not overly harmful. Bites cause pain, inflammation, itchiness and tenderness. Lymph nodes may become swollen due to the immune system's defensive reaction to the invading venom. Symptoms can last up to 10 days. Some individuals may experience more serious symptoms such as darkening (necrotizing) of the affected skin, nausea, dizziness or rapid pulse. In these cases, medical treatment should be sought immediately, especially if the victim is a child or elderly."

I was bitten once by one I picked up (someone was trying to squish it, and I took pity lol)
I had a swollen blister like area where it bit me, but that was about it.

They don't make webs, and roam around looking for something to eat. This often brings them into people's houses where it's nice and warm, and they are looking for food.
Wolf spider mom's are also very dedicated. They carry their eggs around until they hatch, and then the babies hang onto them for a few weeks until they are big enough to hunt on their own.

Hope that helps!

Post #9016963
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barceloj Plainsboro Center, NJ Feb 23, 2012

So you are fairly sure it is a wolf spider? How many types of wolf spiders are there and are any of them more dangerous than others?

I have seen at least three of these in my basement and we have two cats. It's just my wife and I, no kids, and she won't go anywhere near these things. Are the cats in danger? Should we be concerned? Is there any cautions we should take or signs to look out for having them in the home?

Thanks!

Post #9017032
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Flapdoodle Minot, ND Feb 23, 2012

It definitely is a wolf spider as LadyAshleyR stated. Large wolf spiders can give one a painful bite, but none - especially in you area - are dangerous to humans. This is a large family with hundreds of different species that can vary from less than 1/2" to 4" in leg span.

Post #9017086
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barceloj Plainsboro Center, NJ Feb 23, 2012

Thanks for all your input and knowledge!

Post #9017200
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