Hogna carolinensis (Carolina Wolf Spider) 2-3″ FEMALE

Hogna carolinensis (Carolina Wolf Spider) 2–3″ FEMALE

The Carolina Wolf Spider is the largest true wolf spider in North America and a magnificent alternative to tarantulas. A female at the 2–3 inch mark is a robust, impressive predator that has largely moved past the delicate “spiderling” phase. These are high-metabolism, intelligent hunters that offer a very different keeping experience compared to the sit-and-wait lifestyle of most tarantulas.

Key Highlights

• Apex True Spider: Females are the heavyweights of the Lycosidae family. At this size, they are substantial and “leggy,” but with a thick, powerful cephalothorax. They can eventually reach a total leg span of up to 4 inches.

• Excellent Vision: Unlike many tarantulas that rely almost entirely on vibration, wolf spiders have highly developed eyes (including two very large, forward-facing primary eyes). They will actively watch you move around the room and can hunt visually.

• Maternal Instincts: If she matures and produces an egg sac, Hogna females display some of the most fascinating behavior in the arachnid world—they carry their egg sac attached to their spinnerets and, once hatched, carry the spiderlings on their back for several weeks.

• Subtle Beauty: They sport a sophisticated camouflage pattern of slate grey, deep browns, and charcoal. A defining feature of H. carolinensis is the solid black underside (venter), which distinguishes them from other large wolf spiders.

Quick Care Stats