Let’s set aside the fear of spiders and see how the rabid wolf spider is different from the rest of its family members.
Comparing a Rabid Wolf Spider and a Wolf Spider
The Key Differences Between a Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider
Major differences between rabid wolf spiders and wolf spiders include their size, distribution, and coloration. Rabid wolf spiders measure about three-quarters of an inch in body length and two inches in leg span compared to larger wolf spiders that measure up to 4 inches total. While rabid wolf spiders have pale brown colored bodies with dark brown markings, wolf spiders can range in primary body color from brown, gray, and brown to even black. Lastly, rabid wolf spiders are native to North America. They’re found along the eastern coast of the U.S. and as far west as Texas. Meanwhile, wolf spiders as a family are found throughout the world.
Size Difference Between Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider
The rabid wolf spider is an average-sized wolf spider with a total body length of 3/4 inches and a total leg span of about 2 inches. Meanwhile, other members of the wolf spider family can reach between 1 3/8 inches in body length and 2 and 4 inches in total leg span length.
Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider: Markings
Rabid wolf spiders have similar markings to other wolf spiders. They are light brown with two dark brown stripes on the cephalothorax and one large, dark brown line on their abdomen. Although other wolf spiders have very similar markings, they can be light brown, gray, or even dark brown with various colors on their body – including orange! However, male rabid wolf spiders are unique in the genus because they have black metatarsals on their first two legs. That is something that many species of wolf spiders do not possess.
Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider: Species
Hundreds of wolf spider species exist in the world today. Wolf spiders come from the family of Lycosidae. They come from dozens of genera, including one of the genera with the largest species, Hogna. Meanwhile, the rabid wolf spider comes from the same family but stems from the dangerous-sounding Rabidosa genus. Their binomial name is Rabidosa rabida.
Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider: Danger to Humans
Neither the rabid wolf spider nor most other wolf spiders are dangerous to humans. If someone decides to pick them up and provoke them, the spider will likely respond with a bite. These bites mainly cause pain and some swelling. However, people with bite allergies can experience more severe symptoms that require medical care. Despite their name, rabid wolf spiders do not carry rabies and are no more aggressive than the average wolf spider.
Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider: Name Origin
Although wolf spiders are more likely to ambush prey than a wolf, the name still fits. Wolf spiders got their name because they are ground hunters that stalk prey and then bring it down with their large size and bites, similar to a wolf. Meanwhile, rabid wolf spiders are named for their quick, frantic-looking movements as they seek out and kill prey. All in all, they’re not that different from other wolf spiders in that respect.
Rabid Wolf Spider vs Wolf Spider: Range
Wolf spiders are found throughout most of the world except for the coldest extremes. However, rabid wolf spiders are native to North America and can be found in the eastern half of the country. All in all, rabid wolf spiders and wolf spiders are not that different. If you look at their size, range, and elements of their morphology, you can find some dissimilarities. Most importantly, a rabid wolf spider will not cause significant bodily harm. With all these things in mind, you’ll know how to differentiate both creatures.
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