Woodlouse Hunter, Woodlouse Spider, Sowbug-killer, Pillbug Hunter
Dysdera crocata
Dysderidae (Woodlouse Hunters), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A distinctive spider with a smooth, glossy texture and a cylindrical, elongated abdomen. The cephalothorax is dark reddish-brown to mahogany, while the abdomen is a pale grayish-beige or creamy-tan color. They are known for having exceptionally large, forward-projecting chelicerae (fangs) designed to pierce armor.
Size Estimate
Body length 9–15 mm (excluding fangs); leg span roughly 25–40 mm. This specimen appears to be an adult.
Coloration & Markings
Bicolored appearance: the head and thorax are deep reddish-orange or reddish-brown, and the abdomen is a solid, glossy cream, tan, or grey. There are no patterns or stripes on the abdomen. The legs are generally reddish-orange.
Web Type
The Woodlouse Hunter does not build a web to catch prey. It is an active nocturnal hunter. It does, however, spin a small, silk-lined retreat or 'cocoon' in which it rests and molts.
Eye Arrangement
Six eyes arranged in a tight semi-circle (oval) at the front of the cephalothorax. This is a key diagnostic feature as most common spiders have eight eyes.
Leg Characteristics
Medium-length, robust legs that are reddish-orange and match the cephalothorax. They are relatively smooth with few spines compared to wolf spiders.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
The venom is not medically significant to humans. While the bite may be painful due to the mechanical size of the fangs, the venom itself is generally mild and non-toxic to humans.
Medical Significance
Low danger level. A bite usually results in localized pain (similar to a bee sting), minor swelling, and itching that lasts for an hour or two. No specific medical treatment is usually required unless an allergic reaction occurs.
Safety Recommendations
Do not handle with bare hands because of the large fangs. If found indoors, they can be easily relocated outside using a cup and a piece of paper. They are beneficial and should not be killed.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Cosmopolitan distribution including North America, Europe, and Australasia. Commonly found in damp areas: under logs, rocks, leaf litter, and inside basements or crawl spaces where their prey resides.
Behavior & Temperament
Nocturnal ambush hunters that wander at night. They are generally shy and will try to flee, but can be defensive if trapped or squeezed. Their large fangs are powerful enough to pierce human skin if handled.
Diet & Prey
Specializes in eating woodlice (sowbugs and pillbugs). Their oversized fangs are specialized to reach around and pierce the hard, armored exoskeleton of these crustaceans.
Seasonal Activity
Year-round in warmer climates; most active in late spring and autumn when soil moisture is high, driving prey activity.
Description
An intimidating-looking but largely harmless arthropod, the Woodlouse Hunter is an expert predator of the 'pillbugs' found in damp gardens. Its glossy, hairless body and vibrant reddish forebody make it easy to spot against neutral backgrounds.
Key Features
Reddish-brown cephalothorax, cream-colored abdomen, 6 eyes in a cluster, and exceptionally large, forward-pointing fangs.
Similar Species
Broad-faced sac spiders (Trachelas tranquillus) have similar colors but smaller fangs and 8 eyes. Hacklemesh weavers also share similar coloring but have distinct abdominal patterns.
Life Cycle
Females lay about 70 eggs in a silk sac and stay with them until they hatch. They can live for 2–3 years, which is longer than many typical garden spiders.
Ecological Importance
Significant natural pest controller of woodlice and sowbugs. In gardens, they help regulate the population of decomposer organisms that might otherwise nibble on soft plant roots.
Conservation Status
Not listed on IUCN Red List; widespread and common in urban/suburban environments.
Interesting Facts
The Woodlouse Hunter is an 'introduced species' to many continents, likely traveling through soil and plant shipments from its native Mediterranean range. It is one of the few spiders with mouthparts specialized for a specific, armored prey type.
Photography Tips
Focus on the front of the head to capture the impressive fangs and the 6-eye arrangement. Top-down shots are best for showing the contrast between the thorax and abdomen.
Identified: 2026-06-15T01:38:18.888140