It’s Spider Time
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Garden Spider
Late summer and fall are when many species reach their zenith and spin conspicuous webs across wooded paths, window sills, and hedges. As predators, spiders are an important part of the ecosystem and help keep insect populations in check. Join producer Steve Clark and Dr. Art Evans to find out more about these amazing, yet often misunderstood animals.
Tonight, 6/11/12, I found a large spider, about 5-6" across. It was dark brown with lighter brown stripes on the body and legs. Unfortunately, my household occupants were freaking out, so I captured it, removed it to outside, and dispatched it. Did not get a picture.
What could it have been? Was it dangerous? (I live near the RIC airport in eastern Henrico County, VA.) Did it likely leave behind a large and vindictive family?
Thanks.
Anne Fleischmann
Hi Anne - here's a reply from Steve Clark:
Unless this spider was a tourist from another part of the world, it was most likely the wolf spider... the largest in Virginia. It takes its babies with it on its back. Very interesting creature which can reach 1 1/2 inches in body size and 4 inches in leg span. I've seen one in my basement, one here at the station and one at the VCU Rice Center. Very impressive size! For me, the thickness of the legs are one of the identifiers. This may not be so for entomologists.
[p.s. from Ami: Here is a link to a Wikipedia article on wolf spiders that includes some images]
Thanks for the reply! I consulted my brother-in-law, who is also interested in entomology and herpetology. He said my visitor was likely a Wolf spider, too. It sure was a BIG one!!! I almost had a hard time sleeping that night!
Appreciate the response and links.
Sincerely,
Anne Fleischmann
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