Wolf spider

Fact Box Species: Venatrix furcillata (VM) formerly Lycosa furcillata (RM) or a related species Family: Lycosidae Body length: female: 13 mm male: 9 mm Habitat: In a burrow in the ground, the entrance to which is usually open and unadorned Toxicity: Uncertain; may cause mild illness or necrotising arachnidism

The male

This relatively common lycosid species has surface markings that are not easy to distinguish from other members of the same family. However, the pair of large, forward-looking eyes leave no doubt that it belongs in the lycosid family.

Wolf spiders are notable vagrants and can sometimes be found outside the burrow foraging for insects.

Spider(s) with a very similar appearance: Miturga lineata and Lycosa godeffroyi.