Posted by cory gribowski on October 18, 2005

Q: I found a wolf spider about a month ago and have been feeding it once a week,things like grasshoppers and flies. Now that its colder there is not many bugs. what if anything else can i feed him. Newaygo, MIchigan

Habitat: suburban/yard

State: Michigan

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: I've never had a Wolf Spider myself, but I've read that they make very interesting pets. You're certainly going to know a lot about these spiders after having one that you can watch closely. As we get closer and closer to really cold weather, insects are going to be more difficult to find, as you mentioned. I think I'd go to my local pet store and see if you can buy some crickets to use as food.

If your spider is kept cool (should be fine in the 60's or even cooler) it won't need to feed daily - remember they're ectotherms and when cool, burn fewer calories. You may need to ask at the pet store about providing enough food but it would seem to me that one, maybe two, crickets each week is plenty to keep your spider healthy. I'd also keep looking for other insects this fall so you provide as varied a diet as long as possible. Once really cold weather sets in, you may not be able to find any insects at all.

Good luck to you and your spider. Nice choice!

John Wiessinger ( October 19, 2005)